How to Prevent Falling and Falling at Home: 10 Tips for Older Adults and Caregivers
Falls are one of the most common safety concerns for older adults, especially at home. A fall can lead to broken bones, head injuries, loss of independence, and a longer recovery period. The good news is that many falls can be prevented by making simple changes to the home and maintaining strength, balance, and mobility.
For older adults, caregivers, and families, understanding fall prevention strategies can make the home safer and help support a healthier, more independent lifestyle.
1. Remove Tripping Hazards
Loose rugs, clutter, electrical cords, and furniture placed in walkways can increase the risk of falling. Keep hallways, bedrooms, living areas, and other frequently used spaces clear.
Consider removing loose area rugs or securing them with non-slip backing. Make sure cords are positioned safely against walls and that frequently used items are easy to reach.
2. Improve Lighting Throughout the Home
Poor lighting can make it difficult to see obstacles, stairs, and changes in flooring.
Use bright, accessible lighting throughout the home, particularly in hallways, stairways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Keep a lamp or light switch within easy reach of the bed, and consider nightlights for trips to the bathroom during the night.
3. Make the Bathroom Safer
Bathrooms can be especially dangerous because wet surfaces can become slippery.
Bathroom fall prevention may include installing grab bars near the toilet and inside or outside the shower or bathtub. Non-slip mats, a shower chair, and a handheld showerhead may also improve safety and stability.
Avoid using towel racks or other fixtures as makeshift support bars because they may not be designed to hold someone’s weight.
4. Use Handrails on Stairs
Stairs are a common location for falls. Make sure stairways have sturdy handrails and that steps are well lit and free from clutter.
If possible, use handrails whenever going up or down stairs. For individuals who have difficulty navigating stairs, a physical therapist can provide guidance on safer techniques and exercises to improve mobility and balance.
5. Wear Supportive, Properly Fitting Shoes
Footwear can have a significant impact on balance and stability. Choose shoes that fit securely and provide good traction.
Avoid walking around the home in loose slippers, socks without grips, or footwear that easily slips off. Supportive shoes with non-slip soles can provide greater stability.
6. Keep Frequently Used Items Within Reach
Reaching for items stored too high or too low can cause an older adult to lose balance. Keep commonly used household items at an easy-to-reach height.
Avoid standing on chairs, stools, or unstable furniture to reach something. If an item is difficult to reach safely, ask a caregiver or family member for assistance.
7. Talk to a Doctor About Medications
Some medications or combinations of medications can contribute to dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in blood pressure, which may increase the risk of falls.
Older adults and caregivers should talk with a healthcare professional about medications and potential side effects. Never stop or change a medication without first speaking with the prescribing healthcare provider.
8. Work on Strength and Balance
Maintaining strength, balance, flexibility, and mobility can help older adults stay active and reduce their risk of falling.
Depending on an individual’s health and abilities, activities such as walking, strength exercises, balance exercises, and physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can develop an individualized exercise program designed around a person’s needs and recovery goals.
9. Have Vision and Hearing Checked Regularly
Changes in vision can make it harder to identify obstacles, judge distances, or navigate stairs safely. Hearing changes may also affect awareness of what is happening around the home.
Regular vision and hearing evaluations can help identify changes that may affect mobility and safety. Make sure glasses are current and worn as recommended.
10. Create a Fall Prevention Plan
Every household can benefit from having a plan for preventing and responding to falls.
Caregivers and family members can evaluate potential hazards, identify areas where an older adult needs additional support, and discuss what to do if a fall occurs. A healthcare professional or physical therapist can also help identify individual fall risk factors and recommend appropriate safety measures.
When Should an Older Adult Consider Physical Therapy?
If an older adult has experienced a fall, feels unsteady while walking, has difficulty getting up from a chair, or has noticed a decline in strength or balance, it may be worth discussing physical therapy with a healthcare provider.
Physical therapy for fall prevention can focus on improving strength, balance, coordination, flexibility, walking ability, and confidence with movement. Therapy may also be helpful after an injury or hospitalization when someone is working to regain mobility and independence.
Helping Older Adults Stay Safe and Independent
Preventing falls is about more than removing hazards. It involves creating a safe environment while helping older adults maintain the strength, balance, and confidence needed for everyday activities.
Simple changes such as improving lighting, removing clutter, installing bathroom safety equipment, wearing appropriate footwear, and participating in appropriate physical activity can make a meaningful difference.
If you or a loved one is recovering from an injury, illness, or hospitalization or experiencing difficulty with balance and mobility, talk with your healthcare provider about whether physical therapy and rehabilitation may be appropriate.
