Stay Steady: Everyday Ways to Prevent Falls and Injuries at Home

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and they are not just a personal health concern. Falling can also impact your independence, quality of life and even your homeowners insurance.

While the frequency and consequences of falls may be unexpected, the numbers tell a compelling story about the importance of prevention.

• One in four adults aged 65+ fall each year in the United States – that is over 14 million people annually.
• Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults, resulting in over three million emergency department visits and 38,000 deaths in 2021.
• The financial toll is staggering with the cost of treating injuries caused by falls among older adults projected to increase to over $101 billion by 2030.
• Unfortunately, falling once doubles the risk of falling again, which often leads to fear and a conscientious reduction in activity impacting quality of life.

While this reality may be surprising and startling, it’s also preventable. With a few proactive steps, you can create a safer home environment, potentially reducing your risk and the risk to others from falls. And by building your own strength and balance, you can increase your confidence and maximize your ability to stay steady, no matter the terrain.

Home Safety: Your First Line of Defense

While your home may be where you feel the most safe and comforted, the reality is that over 60% of falls happen at home. That statistic may be a bit unsettling, but it also points to a hopeful truth that many falls are caused by hazards we can address through thoughtful and deliberate home modifications, many of which are easy and affordable.

Universal design is an inclusive design philosophy that encourages creating an accessible and safe environment for all people. Follow these general tips to make the inside of your home safer from falls:

• Remove clutter and loose rugs from walkways
• Install grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on both sides of stairs
• Improve lighting, particularly in hallways, staircases, and entryways
• Use non-slip mats in the tub and shower
• Secure cords and furniture to prevent tripping

It’s important to remember that fall risk does not just exist inside your home. The outside of your home can also create a fall risk. To help make the outside of your home is protected against falls, be sure to:

• Clear walkways of leaves, snow and debris
• Repair uneven surfaces on driveways and sidewalks
• Install motion-sensor lighting for nighttime visibility

Whether you’re searching for simple solutions for your own home or that of an older relative, there are creative ways to make any home safer and more comfortable for people of all ages.

Get Active to Stay Steady

Being active is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls. These expert-backed exercises help target key areas like leg strength, flexibility and coordination.*

You may also want to consider trying tai chi, yoga or a balance class, as these can be great ways to stay agile and improve stability. Many YMCAs offer classes tailored for older adults. Your local Area Agency on Aging may help you find other affordable options nearby, too.

Step Into Prevention

Fall prevention is an important shared responsibility at any age or ability, whether you’re a caregiver or homeowner. By combining quick and easy home safety modifications, regular low-impact exercises and insurance awareness, you can help protect yourself and your guests from a slippery slope.

* These exercise suggestions are for general informational purposes only. Please consult a healthcare professional before starting any new fitness routine, particularly if you have health concerns.