The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care.
General safety
It is important to allow people to help you when you return home. You will still have some difficulty performing certain tasks. Remember you are not a burden to the people helping you.
You are more likely to feel dizzy or lightheaded after sitting or lying for long periods of time. Sit for a few minutes before standing, then rise carefully and slowly begin to walk.
Lighting
- Be sure to have bright lighting throughout the home and on paths leading to the front door.
- Light switches should be at easily reached heights.
- Night lights should be placed in the bedroom and hallway leading to the bathroom.
Throw rugs
- Rugs should have a nonslip backing or be removed completely.
- Carpet edges should be well-secured, especially on stairs.
Furniture
- Arrange furniture to allow plenty of walking room, especially if you use an assistive device.
- Make sure the path between the bed and the bathroom is clear of furniture and clutter.
Seating
- Choose chairs with straight backs and sturdy armrests.
- Do not sit on chairs or sofas that are too soft or too low to the ground.
Assistive devices
- Always keep your walker or cane close to you when maneuvering in your home.
- Avoid twisting or navigating small spaces where your walker cannot safely fit.
- Avoid carrying large, heavy, or awkward objects while walking.
- Remove electrical cords from walkways.
- Be aware of water spills and have them cleaned up quickly.
- Wear supportive shoes with rubber soles. Backless and toeless shoes are not recommended.
- Keep phones within reach or carry cordless/cell phones for emergencies.
- Put frequently used items at chest level for easy access or use a reacher for lighter items stored high or low.
Stairs
- Stairs should be free of clutter and well-maintained.
- Use the railing when available.
- When installing handrails, they should begin before the first step and end after the last.
- Take your time when going up and down stairs.
- Consider staying on one level of your home instead of navigating stairs frequently during the day.
By room
Kitchen
- To safely move items, slide them across the counter or place them on a wheeled cart.
- Before your procedure, consider freezing meals or having healthy microwavable meals available.
- Place items in a walker bag or walker basket.
- Plan ahead when preparing meals to minimize time spent standing or walking.
- Use back burners when cooking in case you lose balance and need to steady yourself—this reduces the chance of burns.
- Plan to have someone assist with grocery shopping for up to 6 weeks after surgery.
Bathroom
To prevent slipping:
- Put a rubber mat on the tub floor.
- Place a nonskid bath mat next to the tub/shower.
To decrease fall risk:
- Consider a tub seat, bath rails, and/or a handheld shower head.
- Use liquid soap or place bar soap inside a stocking tied to a bath rail.
- Use a longhandled sponge to wash your back and legs.
- Avoid hot showers—they can increase blood pressure, cause dizziness, and lead to falling.