According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, accidental falls are the leading cause of injury and death for adults age 65 and older. Each year, 1 in 3 retirees, about 11 million people, experience a fall, and 60% of these incidents happen inside the home.
For many, the goal is to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own home for as long as possible. Taking a few preventative steps can help make that a safe reality.
Tips for Reducing Fall Risks at Home
- Keep essentials within easy reach. Store frequently used items where they’re easy to grab, and clear away clutter—especially in hallways and on stairs—to create clear walking paths.
- Install sturdy handrails. Make sure there are handrails on both sides of all indoor and outdoor stairways.
- Add grab bars and non-slip features in bathrooms. Place grab bars in the shower, tub, and near the toilet. Consider a shower chair and a raised toilet seat if needed. Use non-slip strips in the tub and shower for added safety.
- Secure carpets and rugs. Choose non-slip mats or fasten rugs securely to the floor to prevent tripping.
- Improve lighting throughout the home. Ensure every room is well lit. Replace bulbs promptly, keep a lamp by the bed, and add nightlights in hallways and bathrooms. Keep a flashlight near the bed for power outages.
- Address outdoor hazards. Hire help for snow removal and ice treatment in winter. In summer, arrange for mowing and trimming to reduce risks outside.
- Consider a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS). Especially valuable for those living alone, studies show PERS can lower mortality rates by nearly four times and cut hospitalization risk by 59%.
Taking these simple yet important steps can dramatically lower your risk of falls and help keep you living safely and independently at home.
Sources:
- Bernstein M. Low-tech personal emergency response systems reduce costs and improve outcomes. Manag Care Q. 8(1): 38-43.
- Sherwood S. Morris J. A study of the effects of an emergency alarm and response system for the aged: a final report. Grand No. HS01788, NCHSR.
- Cain B. Effects of a Lifeline program on hospitalization. Long Beach California: California State University: Thesis.
