11/09/2016

Steady U: Stay Safe While Shopping

The Ohio Department of Aging’s Steady U falls prevention program has released a list of tips for seniors shopping during the holidays. Taking a few simple steps can ensure your holiday shopping trip won’t turn into a fall and ruin your festive season. The Ohio Council of Retail Merchants and the Golden Buckeye Program have partnered with STEADY U Ohio to provide these tips for shoppers to prevent falls:

• Shop at off-peak times to avoid crowds and long waits. Bring someone with you who can wait in line for you while you sit and rest.

• Report hazards, such as spills, loose rugs or mats, and unsafe sidewalks or stairs to store staff immediately.
• Avoid walking around displays that block your view of other shoppers and obstacles. Tell store staff that these are hazardous.
• Ask store staff for help carrying heavy or bulky packages or bags to your vehicle. Avoid carrying large, low-hanging bags that can trip you.
• If you use your cane or walker at home, shop with it, too. Take advantage of the mobility scooters many stores provide if you could be on your feet for longer than you usually find comfortable.
• Tell store staff if you see anybody behaving in an unsafe manner.
• If you fall, even if you're not hurt, notify store staff and management right away so that they can document the incident and take steps to prevent future accidents.

Visit www.steadyu.ohio.gov for more tips and resources to prevent falls.