environmental assessment for fall risk

Introduction

Floor surface

• use wall-to-wall low-pile carpeting
• carpet edges should be tacked down
• keep smooth floors dry & clean
• nonskid wax should be used
• threshholds should be beveled no higher than 1/2 inch (or removed)
• minimize clutter or obstacles

Lighting

• hallway & stairs should be well lit
• reduce glare by using lamp shades & frosted light bulbs
• light swithches should be easily accessible

Bedroom

• mattress should be firm
• bed height
  • should allow the patient's feet to touch the floor when sitting on the edge of the bed
• bedside table should be accessible from the bed
• call button & light should be accessible from the bed
• furniture
  • should be arranged to provide support for the patient when walking

Bathroom

• floors should have a nonslip surface
• grap bars
  • should be attached to the wall next to toilet & in the bathtub or shower
• toilet should be at a height to allow easy transferring
• shower seat & nonslip appliques
  • should be used in bathtub or shower
• call button or cord
  • should be easily reached from toilet, tub, floor

Stairs

• sufficient lighting with light switch at top & bottom of stairs
• securely fastened bilateral handrails
• top & bottom steps marked with bright contrasting tape
• stair rises of no more than 6 inches
• steps in good repair
• no objects stored on steps

Yard & Entrances

• repair of cracks in pavement & holes in lawn
• removal or rocks, tools & other tripping hazzards
• well-lit walkways, free of ice & wet leaves
• stairs & steps as above

Institutions:

• all of the above
• clean up spills on the floor promptly
• appropriate use of walking aids & wheelchair

Footwear:

• shoes with firm, nonskid, nonfriction soles
• low heels (unless person is accustomed to high heels)
• avoidance of walking in stocking feet or loose slippers

More general terms

• environmental assessment