Eliminate hazards around your house
• Have a light within easy reach when entering a room
• Improve lighting in stairwells and hallways
• Install handrails and grab bars in the tub and shower
• Make sure stairs have sturdy railings on both sides
• Remove all lose wires and cords
• Remove clutter
• Secure throw rugs or avoid their use all together
• Use a sturdy, rubber backed rug or mat near sinks or where water is likely to get on the floor
• Use rubber mats in the tub and shower to avoid slipping

Wear sturdy shoes
• Avoid sandals and floppy shoes
• Make sure slippers have non-slip soles
• Select non-slip soles
• Shoes should be low-heeled

Personal habits
• Always wear seatbelts when riding in the car
• Avoid excessive alcohol
• Get up slowly from sitting or lying down to avoid feeling dizzy and losing your balance
• Have your hearing tested
• Have your vision tested
• Know the side effects of any medication, such as dizziness, fatigue or loss of balance

Exercise
• Resistance Training increases muscle strength
• Toe stands, side kicking with leg, mini squats, and one-legged standing while holding a tall chair back or counter top improve walking and balance strength
• Yoga and Tai Chi can improve balance

Contact us
Rehabilitation Services
Fairview Red Wing Medical Center
701 Fairview Blvd.
PO Box 95
Red Wing, MN 55066
651-267-5450