Home Safety
Name one reason throw rugs should be removed.
Tripping hazards / fall risk
Name 2 memory stategies.
Association, grouping, repetition, writing things down, using alarms, visualization, chunking information, mnemonic devices
What should you check before standing up from the wheelchair?
Check the brakes!
What number should you call for an emergency?
911
Name three things that should always be in your wallet.
1. Identification
2. Medication list
3. Emergency contact list
4. Health insurance cards or information
Name 3 trip hazards in the home.
Loose rugs and throw rugs, electrical cords, pets, cluttered walkways, uneven flooring, poor lighting
Name one way you can remember important information from the doctor's office.
Take notes, bring a family member or friend, ask the doctor to repeat key information, record the conversation with permission, ask the doctor or nurse to write notes
Name 2 safety precautions when using the stairs.
use handrails, take on step at a time, ensure there is good lighting, use devices as recommended
Why is it important to have emergency contacts written down?
Helps you remember phone numbers AND helps first responders contact family if necessary
What do you do if the cashier gives you the wrong change?
Politely notify them and ask for the correct change
Why are grab bars important to have in the bathroom?
Prevents slips and falls in the shower and near the toilet, increases stability when standing, reduces fall risk on wet surfaces
What is the "association" strategy?
Linking new information to something already familiar to make it easier to remember
What should you do if you feel dizzy upon standing up?
Sit down immediately and wait until the dizziness passes before trying to get up again. Also, notify someone around you that you're feeling dizzy so they can provide supervision or assistance.
What should you do if you smell gas in your home?
1. Leave immediately
2. Call for help (911 and/or gas company)
3. Call family for assistance
What should you do if someone is asking for your debit PIN?
Say no and report them; notify a family member or friend you trust
Name 1 benefit of having motion sensor nightlights in the hmoe.
Prevent falls during the night
What is the "chunking" memory strategy?
Grouping related items together, such as remembering a phone number in smaller parts
Why should you avoid walking in regular socks?
They can be slippery and increase fall risk. Always use grip socks if intending to walk in socks.
What is the purpose of a medical alert system?
To get immediate help in an emergency situation, such as a fall
You get a text message with a link from a company to pay a bill, what do you do?
Do NOT click the link, find the company phone number and determine if it is a scam
What are 3 home safety modifications to improve safety?
stair railings, raised toilet seat, motion sensor lights, wider doorways for walkers, remove throw rugs, secure pets
How does physical activity impact memory?
Increased blood flow to the brain which improves congnitive functions and recall
What percentages of hip fractures are caused by falls?
Name 2 things to do if you fall and are alone.
1. Stay calm
2. Call for help (911 and/or family)
3. Assess for injury
4. Do not move (something might be broken!)
What should you do if you receive a phone call claiming to be the bank and they need private information?
Hang up, call the bank directly using their official number, and notify them you're being scammed.