Health Tips for November 18

Health Tip: Make Your Home Fall-Proof

Falls in the home can lead to serious injury, including the all-too-common broken hip. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions to minimize the risk of falling: Keep stairs clear and well-lit, and make sure there are handrails on both sides. Also, there should be no loose rugs, carpets or boards. Make sure there's a slip-resistant rug outside the shower, with handrails and non-skid strips on the shower/tub floor. In the bedroom, make sure there is clear and easy access to the door. Also, keep a lamp or flashlight near the bed. Install a night light in the hallway, making that late-night trip to the bathroom safer. Make sure furniture and decorations don't block walkways. Keep all cords neat and out of the way, and all rugs or carpets firmly attached to the floor. Health Tip: Protect Your Eyes Eye protection may be required on the job, but don't forget to protect your eyes at home, too. The U.S. National Safety Council says you should always wear protective eye gear when you: Work on do-it-yourself projects around the house or on your car. Cook with ingredients that could splash into the eye and cause burns or injury. Work with chemicals such as pesticides, fertilizers, drain cleaners or cleaning sprays. Play sports such as tennis, racquetball or baseball. Do yard work, such as mowing the lawn, trimming plants or cutting weeds.