Preparing your home

Fall-proof your home

Clear away clutter and look around for potential hazards such as long cords or rugs you could trip on and get them out of the way. You may need to rearrange furniture so there is more space to get around with crutches or a walker.

Set up night-lights and repair any uneven footpaths or trip hazards.

Set up a comfy space

Set up an area where you will spend a lot of time as you recover. Place items that you know you use regularly – such as the phone or a remote control, as well as food, dishes or clothes – within easy arm-level reach so you don’t have to stretch or bend down to get them. Pick chairs with arms and high, firm seats so you can push yourself up out of them relatively easily.

Modify your home

Depending on your procedure you may need to make some tweaks to your home to make life easier and safer as you recover. These might include a shower chair, over the toilet seat, non-slip mats and/or grab rails.

Discuss with your doctor or nurse to see what they recommend.

Keep boredom at bay

Try to reduce stress and boredom where you can. Stock up on books, magazines, music, movies — whatever will help you keep your mind occupied.