Save energy and protect your joints:
Kitchen
- Do not get down on your knees to scrub floors. Use a mop and long-handled brushes.
- Plan ahead! Gather all your cooking supplies at one time. Then, sit to prepare your meal.
- Place frequently used cooking supplies and utensils where they can easily be reached without too much bending or stretching.
- For a better working height, use a high stool or put cushions on your chair when preparing a meal.
Bathroom
- Do not get down on your knees to scrub floors. Use a mop and long-handled brushes.
- Pre-install grab bars if needed.
- Remove rugs that can easily be tripped over.
All rooms and areas
- Pick up throw rugs and tack down loose carpeting. Cover slippery surfaces with carpets that are firmly anchored to the floor or have non-skid backs.
- Be aware of all floor hazards such as pets, small objects and uneven surfaces.
- Provide good lighting throughout. Install nightlights in the bathrooms, bedrooms and hallways.
- Keep extension cords and telephone cords out of pathways. Do not run wires under rugs; this can be a fire hazard.
- Sit in chairs with arms to make getting up easier.
- Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position so as not to get light-headed.
- Do not lift heavy objects for the first three months, and then only with your surgeon’s permission.
- Stop and think. Use good judgment. Remember, your judgment may be slightly impaired while on pain medications.