Safety in Everyday Activities
- Let the phone ring -- don't run to answer it
- Have your vision and hearing tested regularly and properly corrected
- Learn about the side effects of your medicines and how they may affect your coordination or balance
- Wear footwear with soles and heels that provide good support and traction
- Avoid wearing only socks or smooth-soled shoes or slippers on stairs, wood or waxed floors
- Limit your intake of alcohol. Even a little alcohol can disturb already impaired balance and reflexes
- Use caution in getting up too quickly after eating, lying down, or resting
- Make sure that the nighttime temperature in your home is no lower than 65F
- Maintain a regular program of exercise
- Use a cane or walker to help maintain balance as recommended by your physical therapist