checklist for the home for vertigo

overview

use these checklists once a month to see how you are doing to stay safe in case of a vertigo attack. how many of the items can you say "yes" to? try to do all the items on each list.

date:_________

checklist for the home

• ____walkways around the house (especially to the bathroom or telephone) are clear of furniture, toys, throw rugs, electrical cords, or anything that may cause me to trip.
• ____my furniture is a height that allows me to use it easily.
• ____i can easily reach a telephone in any room that contains one.
• ____my linoleum or wood floors are not slippery.
• ____my driveway and sidewalks are clear of toys, tools, and anything that may cause me to trip.
• ____my indoor and outdoor lighting allows me to see my way.
• ____i have night-lights where they best help me.
• ____my stairs have light switches within reach.
• ____i have a handrail next to my stairs.

checklist for the bathroom and kitchen

• ____i have grab bars in place in the shower and bathtub and near the toilet.
• ____i have mats in my shower and bathtub to prevent slipping.
• ____i do not have any throw rugs in the bathroom or kitchen.
• ____i have a night-light in the bathroom.
• ____i store the materials and foods i use the most on lower shelves so that i don't need to climb or reach for them.
• ____if i have to climb to reach a kitchen or bathroom shelf, i use a step stool with handrails.
• ____i do not stand on chairs.
• ____i clean up any spills immediately and keep the bathroom floor dry.

checklist for personal consideration

• ____i have explained to my family, friends, and work colleagues that i experience vertigo. they know what might happen during an episode and how they can help.
• ____i know the side effects of my medicines and whether any affect my sense of balance.
• ____i try to avoid driving, working at heights, or operating dangerous machinery.
• ____i use a cane or walker if necessary.
• ____i wear low-heeled shoes that don't skid.
• ____i don't wear shoes with thick and heavy soles.
• ____i keep my shoes tied.
• ____i avoid walking around the house in slippers or socks.
• ____in fall or winter, i promptly clear wet leaves and snow or ice off walkways.