Patients undergoing cancer treatment are more at risk of osteoporosis and bones weakened from metastatic cancer can break or fracture. Extreme care needs to be taken not to trip and lose your footing in the dark. Local councils may provide home assist services to help residents remain safe and independent in their homes.
Light prevents the trips and falls that cause serious injury so ensure that there is good lighting in and around the home. Sensor lights can be strategically placed along hallways and at entrance doors to help with night time visibility. Light switches should be within easy reach and able to be seen in the dark. Luminous reflective tape can be used to mark stairs and other hazards. Glow in the dark products and night lights can be handy too. When moving to and from brightly lit areas to darker areas allow time for your eyes to adjust. Don’t forget outside, lighting and safety inside won’t mean much if you fall on the patio or front step because it wasn’t lit well enough.
Falls are a major cause of hospitalisation. If you fall, let your medical team and your caregivers know. They might need to check you for injuries.
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