Frequently asked questions
Please click on each question to find the answers to the Frequently Asked Questions.
how do i minimize injury in the event of a fall?
In the event of a fall, you may minimize injury by hitting the ground with the entire palm and forearm of the side you fall on and tucking your chin inside your chest to avoid your head striking the ground. Additionally, you may avoid falling directly on your hip, and you may attempt to squat as you land.
How to get in and out of a bathtub?
In order to assist with transferring in and out of the bathtub, you may use a bathtub transfer bench with which you may sit down on the extendable end outside of the tub, and scoot yourself in and out of the tub.
What is the importance of exercises to improve strength, balance, and flexibility?
With age, strength declines due to decrease in muscle fiber size and amount, nerve supply, energy supply, and circulation. Tighter and weaker muscles, a decreased range of motion, and a reduction in body’s ability to respond to balance challenges cause a decline in balance. Lack of exercise leads to weakness and increases chances of falling. Therefore, exercises are important to maintain and improve balance, strength, and endurance.
how to get up from the floor/ground?
Get into a kneeling position. Bring one foot in front to a half-kneeling position, then rise to a standing position.
How to use a walker or cane correctly?
Cane
When using a cane, always hold it in the opposite hand of your weaker side.
Walker
Place the walker firmly on the floor with all four legs in contact with the ground. Keep the walker within comfortable arms distance with elbows slightly bent. Stand tall and avoid walking bent over. Use a walker bag to carry objects.
When using a cane, always hold it in the opposite hand of your weaker side.
Walker
Place the walker firmly on the floor with all four legs in contact with the ground. Keep the walker within comfortable arms distance with elbows slightly bent. Stand tall and avoid walking bent over. Use a walker bag to carry objects.
How to pick up things from the floor
In order to pick things up from the floor, you may squat to pick things up, or you may use your hips to hinge forward. Try to keep the object close to you, don't slouch, and do not twist your torso.
How to get up and down stairs?
Going Up:
Turn the stairwell light on. Use a handrail whenever available. Go up with the stronger leg first and then bring up with the weaker leg onto the same step, then the cane (if you use one).
Going Down:
Go down with the weaker leg first, then lower the strong leg onto the same step. If you use a cane, it should go down first.
Turn the stairwell light on. Use a handrail whenever available. Go up with the stronger leg first and then bring up with the weaker leg onto the same step, then the cane (if you use one).
Going Down:
Go down with the weaker leg first, then lower the strong leg onto the same step. If you use a cane, it should go down first.
How to get up from a chair?
Scoot to then edge of the chair. Place stronger leg slightly in back of the weaker leg. Place hand on the armrest of the chair. Lean forward and push down on the arms to stand up.
How to get in and out of bed?
Lie on your back with both knees bent and feet flat on the bed. Roll onto your side toward the direction you will get out of bed. Push your body up with your arms. Bring your legs forward over the edge of the bed and lower your feet to the floor. Sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes before standing up.
