By Damaris Maisie, Physical Therapist Assistant, RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center
Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when it comes to assessing your home for safety and making note of potential obstacles that can lead to falls.
- Avoid placing cords and wires in walkways to help avoid trips and falls.
- Safely secure cords and wires with wire tape or clips to keep them out of the way.
- Ensure rugs and mats are well attached to flooring with things such as double-sided tape to prevent the edges from lifting.
- Avoid objects that cause clutter in walkways, stairs, and entry ways.
- Use tape on thresholds and stairs to increase awareness.
- Make sure railings are secure and stable.
- Repair loose floorboards and tiling.
- Clean up areas that are likely to get wet after a shower or rain/snow.
- Ensure you have adequate lighting in high traffic areas like stairways and hallways.
- Make use of night lights in bathrooms and walkways at night.
- Be mindful of pets in the home, sometimes they can run or cross paths with you.
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The experienced and compassionate staff at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Rehabilitation Centers, with locations in West Orange and Livingston, offers adults and children the specialized care they need to resume an active life after surgery, injury or illness. Staff is committed to providing patients with the most advanced services in a safe, caring and soothing environment. For high-risk patients who are unable to visit in person, telehealth is an option. Patients do not need a prescription for physical therapy services.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 973-322-7500.
Damaris Ababio, PTA, MSCS, is a Physical Therapist Assistant at the RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center. She treats patients with neurological and orthopedic conditions as well as balance and gait deficits. Damaris is currently a Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist (2018) and an LSVT BIG certified therapist (2020). She also serves as a member of the International Organization of Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation Professionals and the American Physical Therapy Association. When she’s not working, Damaris enjoys spending time with her family, participating in philanthropic work or carrying out DIY projects.