Meals on Wheels, Indianapolis

Tips for preventing falls and minimizing injuries

• Keep stairways and hallways free of obstructions such as shoes, papers, books, clothing and other loose items. Place a basket in a safe place near the stairway to collect things to go up or down the stairs.
• Be sure stairways have sturdy handrails 32-36 inches above the stair treads.
• Be sure all stairways and hallways are well lit.
• Put padding on concrete floors to cushion falls should they occur.
• Replace loose throw rugs with slip-proof padded rugs, or use non-slip pads or double-sided tape to prevent rugs from slipping.
• Install handrails and grab bars inside and outside the bathtubs and showers.
• Move frequently used items, such as food, medicines and personal care products onto lower shelves, cabinets and counter tops. Be sure to secure medicines and vitamins if young children will be visiting!
• Keep a sturdy step-stool handy to discourage the use of chairs and other unsafe objects to reach high items.
• Avoid wearing shoes with deep tread or open backs and heels. Instead, choose sturdy shoes that provide good support and have thin, non-slip soles.
• Clear outside stoops, steps, porches and walkways of debris, leaves, snow and ice. Sprinkle rock salt on walkways and driveways to melt ice outdoors.

Top 10 Foods That Cause Choking - and ways to keep enjoying them….

• Apples and other firm fruits - Chop, cook or shred.
• Carrots and other firm, hard vegetables - Finely shred, puree or cook until soft.
• Celery - Use a peeler to remove the stringy outer layer and cut into very small pieces.
• Grapes and cherries - Cut into fourths and remove seeds, pips and stones.
• Hot dogs - Slice lengthwise and chop into irregularly-shaped pieces
• Peanut butter - Spread thinly and serve with a beverage. Never eat peanut butter by spoonfuls.
• Raisins and other dried fruit - Avoid all but plump, moist raisins or raisins that have been cooked in breads or puddings.
• Nuts - Peanuts are a leading cause of choking. All nuts are a threat because of their size and shape, and should be avoided.
• Popcorn - Its size, shape and irregular edges make it a prime choking food. Kernels can also be a hazard as they can swell.
• Hard candy, throat lozenges and chewing gum - Avoid these items.