Falls Prevention

At the Cancer Center, we want all of our patients and visitors to be safe and want to prevent you from falling. 

What increases your risk of falling? 

  • Balance issues 
  • Weakness, being tired or sick, having had a recent surgery 
  • Having fallen before 
  • Medications – which can cause weakness, sleepiness, confusion, dizziness, etc. 
  • Vision problems 
  • Environmental issues: rain, ice, snow, grass, uneven pavement, darkness, etc. 

Here are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of falling: 

  • Pull up to the front door of the hospital and ask for staff assistance or a wheelchair to get to the Cancer Center. 
  • Use caution if you decide to walk in from the parking lot → be aware of uneven sidewalks, or cracks in the sidewalks, rocks, holes, uneven pavement and watch out for moving cars. 
  • Be extra careful during bad weather; the rain, snow, and ice can make surfaces very slippery. 
  • If you have difficulty seeing, be sure to wear the correct eyewear and walk in well lit areas. 
  • If you feel unsteady while walking, use assistive devices, i.e. a cane, walker or wheelchair. 
  • Talk to your doctor about your medications if they make you feel sleepy, dizzy or confused and ask how to reduce those side effects. 
  • Wear well-fitting/supportive shoes with soles/bottoms that do not slide or skid. 

For more tips on Falls Prevention visit the following website: www.stopfalls.org