Cognitive Fitness
What day of the week was yesterday?
(Answer varies depending on the current day; e.g., if today is Thursday, answer is Wednesday.)
What should you do if you feel lightheaded while getting out of bed?
Sit back down, breathe slowly, and wait until steady before standing again.
You want to make a sandwich but have limited hand strength. What tool or strategy could help you open a jar?
Jar opener, rubber grip, or electric opener.
Why should you use a gait belt or assistive device when walking after a fall?
To reduce risk of falling again and provide added support/stability.
You’re getting dressed and realize your shirt has a missing button. What can you do to still get ready and stay on time?
Choose a different shirt or use a pin temporarily; adapt and keep your routine moving.
Spell the word “world” backwards.
D-L-R-O-W
Name two fire hazards commonly found in kitchens.
Leaving the stove unattended, frayed cords on appliances, or clutter near burners.
You have trouble bending to put on socks. What assistive device could help with dressing independently?
Sock aid or long-handled shoehorn.
What’s the proper way to get out of a low chair safely?
Scoot to the edge, place feet flat, lean forward, push off armrests or stable surface.
You’re expecting visitors, but the doorbell rings and you don’t recognize the person outside. What should you do?
Do not open the door; speak through the door, use a peephole or camera, and call someone if unsure.
Name 5 things you can find in a kitchen.
Answers may vary: e.g., plate, fork, stove, refrigerator, pan.
Why is it important to keep a cordless or cell phone near your bed?
To call for help in case of emergency (e.g., fall or health concern during the night).
You get overwhelmed trying to clean the house all at once. How can you break it into manageable tasks?
Tackle one room or chore at a time; use a checklist or timer to limit sessions.
You need to reach something off the floor. Describe a safe strategy using a cane or walker.
Use a reacher/grabber; never bend while using a walker; hold onto stable support.
You plan to go for a walk, but it starts raining. What are 2 ways to adjust your plan while staying active and safe?
Walk indoors (hallway laps), do seated exercises, or delay the walk until later.
You’re making a grocery list for a pasta dinner. What 4 items do you need?
Pasta, sauce (e.g., marinara), cheese, garlic bread or salad.
You’re home alone and fall. You didn’t get hurt. What should you do before getting up?
Check for pain or injury, crawl to a stable surface, and use furniture or assistance to rise slowly.
You enjoy hobbies like playing cards or painting but tire quickly. What are two ways to adapt the activity to keep doing what you love?
Use adaptive equipment (e.g., built-up handles), take breaks, use a supportive chair, or schedule shorter sessions.
Why is it dangerous to hold onto furniture for walking instead of using a walker?
Furniture isn’t stable or meant to support body weight; increases fall risk.
You spilled water in the kitchen, but you’re in a hurry to take a phone call. How do you safely handle this situation?
Quickly place a towel over the spill or clean it up before answering; avoid slips.
You have a doctor’s appointment, a birthday lunch, and your pills are due at noon. In what order should you do these activities and why?
Take your pills at noon as scheduled, attend the doctor’s appointment (prioritize health), then go to lunch (social engagement). Prioritize safety, health, and routine.
Name 4 things you should check in your home regularly for safety.
Smoke alarm batteries, loose rugs, grab bars, medication expiration dates.
You’ve started forgetting whether you've taken your medication each day. What are 3 strategies or tools you could use to manage this safely?
Use a pill organizer, set alarms/reminders, keep a medication log, or use a smartphone app.
You begin an exercise routine. How can you tell if you are overexerting yourself? What should you do?
Signs include shortness of breath, dizziness, fatigue; stop, rest, and notify your therapist or doctor.
You feel unusually tired and dizzy after taking your medication. What are your steps for addressing this issue safely and responsibly?
Sit or lie down, do not drive, call your doctor or pharmacist, and track symptoms.