Bedroom & Living Area Safety

Bedroom Safety Tips

1
Avoid bedspreads, bed linens and draperies that reach the floor in order to keep feet from getting tangled. Before getting out of bed look at the floor and make sure pillows or blankets have not fallen down onto your walking path.
2
Nightstands should be sturdy and able to support your weight should you need assistance with standing and balance.
3
Make sure the bed is the appropriate height. Beds that are too high or too low can cause you to fall. The Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund recommends beds should be 20 to 23 inches high from the floor to the top of the mattress.
4
Before getting out of bed, sit on the edge of the bed with both feet flat on the floor. Take a minute to make sure you’re not experiencing any dizziness and your balance is good before standing.
5
Wear supportive slippers that have non-skid or rubber soles whenever you are walking.
6
Remove carpet or use carpet tape to secure the edges of carpet and area rugs to prevent rugs from slipping, buckling or turning up in the corners.
7
Check to make sure all electrical cords are safely tucked behind furniture to prevent tripping.
8
Place a sturdy chair in the bedroom to sit on while getting dressed.
9
Make sure lamps are easily accessible so you don’t need to walk around the room in the dark.
10
Place a nightlight in the bedroom and bathroom to illuminate the walking path and avoid trips or bumps in the dark.
11
Keep pets out of the bedroom to make sure they don’t get underfoot and cause a fall.
12
Keep clutter in the bedroom to a minimum and never leave laundry baskets, shopping bags or boxes on the floor in your walking path.