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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.

Credits

Current as of: September 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

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