Fall Prevention and Home Safety for DME Patients

Helping You Stay Safe, Independent, and Confident at Home

At Alpine Home Medical, your safety is our top priority.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among adults over 65, but many can be prevented with a few simple changes. As a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider, we are committed to educating our patients and caregivers on fall prevention strategies to promote independence, safety, and quality of life at home.

1. Begin a Regular Exercise Program

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of falling.
Exercise strengthens your muscles, improves balance, increases coordination, and boosts confidence.
Tips:

• Participate in exercises that improve balance and flexibility, such as Tai Chi, yoga, or light stretching.
• Walking or water aerobics are excellent low-impact options.
• Avoid long periods of inactivity — even short daily walks can make a difference.
• Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any exercise program to ensure it’s safe for your health and mobility level.

Why It Matters:

• Lack of exercise can lead to muscle weakness and poor balance, both of which increase your likelihood of falling.

2. Have Your Health Care Provider Review Your Medications

Medication management is a key part of fall prevention. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all of your prescriptions, supplements, and over-the-counter medications regularly.
Why It’s Important:

• Some medications, or combinations of medications, may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or confusion.
• As we age, our bodies process medications differently — side effects can appear even after long-term use.
• A medication review helps your provider identify and adjust medicines that could increase your risk of falling.

Tip:
Keep an updated medication list with you and bring it to every medical appointment.

3. Have Your Vision Checked Regularly

Your eyesight plays a critical role in balance and mobility.
Have your eyes examined by an eye doctor at least once a year to detect any changes that might affect your vision.
Consider These Points:

• You may need an updated prescription for glasses or contact lenses.
• Conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, or macular degeneration can limit your vision and increase fall risk.
• Ask your doctor if you need special lenses to reduce glare or improve depth perception.

Quick Tip:
Keep your glasses clean and wear them consistently to maintain clear vision throughout your home.

4. Make Your Home Safer

Nearly half of all falls occur in the home.
Simple home modifications can make a significant difference in reducing fall risk.
Fall-Proofing Tips:

• Remove tripping hazards: Pick up clutter, such as loose shoes, papers, cords, or small rugs from walking areas and stairs.
• Secure rugs: If you use area rugs, apply non-slip backing or double-sided tape.
• Improve lighting: Install brighter bulbs in hallways, stairways, and bathrooms. Keep nightlights on in key areas.
• Add grab bars: Install grab bars near the toilet, tub, and shower.
• Use non-slip mats: Place non-slip mats or decals inside bathtubs and showers.
• Adjust storage: Keep frequently used items in easy-to-reach cabinets to avoid climbing or stretching.
• Stair safety: Make sure stairways have sturdy handrails and good lighting on both sides.
• Reduce glare: Hang lightweight curtains or blinds to filter sunlight.
• Footwear: Wear supportive shoes both indoors and outdoors. Avoid slippers, socks, or going barefoot, as they increase your chance of slipping.

Bonus Tip:
Consider asking your DME provider about home safety aids such as grab bars, handrails, shower chairs, raised toilet seats, or mobility aids (canes and walkers). These devices can significantly reduce fall risk when used properly.

5. Partner With Your DME Provider

As your home medical equipment provider, Alpine Home Medical is dedicated to supporting your safety and independence.
Our team can:

• Recommend appropriate mobility aids and fall-prevention equipment.
• Educate you and your caregivers on proper equipment use.
• Conduct home safety assessments to identify fall hazards.
• Assist with equipment setup and maintenance.

Your safety matters to us.
Together, we can create a safer, more comfortable living environment that supports your freedom and confidence at home.

If You Experience a Fall
Even if you aren’t seriously injured, tell your healthcare provider about any falls.
Frequent or near-falls could indicate a need for changes in medication, equipment adjustments, or additional therapy support.