Mobility, visual and some cognitive problems, as well as fatigue after stroke, can make moving around your home more challenging. Knowing you can get about safely is important for your confidence and independence.
Here, Careline365 share some tips to help you to improve your safety at home.
Safe walkways
One of the simplest ways to improve safety at home is to keep all walkways (hallways, stairs, doorways) clear to help prevent falls. Removing trip hazards such as cables, loose mats and curling rugs can make a huge difference. Make sure your hallways and stairs are well lit so you can see potential obstacles.
Have an emergency plan
When you’ve had a stroke, it’s natural to worry about experiencing another medical emergency. Consider making an emergency plan, so if something happens, you have reassurance that you can get help. For example, making arrangements with family or getting a personal alarm.
Improve accessibility
Installing ramps to prevent you tripping on steps, or handrails to help you walk from room to room, or to get in and out of bed, can make it easier to get around and reduce the risk of falling. If you struggle with the stairs, consider having a stairlift installed too.
Purchase a personal alarm
Personal alarms enable you to get help if you have an emergency at home. The alarm is usually worn on a pendant around your neck or on your wrist. If you need assistance, you press the button and it sends out an alert to your family or a monitoring service. Some personal alarms even come with fall detection and GPS trackers.
Use a mobility aid
If you have a mobility aid, such as a walking stick or frame, you should try to use it at home too, especially if it’s been recommended by your therapist. It’s important to remember that mobility aids exist to support your independence, not to take it away. Your mobility aid will also offer more support than your furniture as you move around.
Ask for help
If there’s a task you can’t do safely then ask someone to help you. Or leave it if it’s less important.
For more information
See our equipment for independent living guidance.
Careline 365
To find out more about Careline365’s personal alarms call 0800 030 8777 or visit Careline365's website.
Use code “SA15” to get a £15 discount when you buy a Careline alarm. For each purchase, Careline365 will also donate £40 to the Stroke Association.
Stroke News magazine
This article is featured in the summer 2023 edition of our magazine, Stroke News. Subscribe to our future editions available in print, on audio CD, or via email.