Falls are not an unavoidable part of aging. Changes to the home, regular physical activity, medication reviews, vision care, and conversations with a health care provider can all help reduce the risk.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that falls are the leading cause of injury death among adults age 65 and older. They are also a major cause of emergency room visits and loss of independence. The good news is that many falls can be prevented. Learn about older adult fall prevention from the CDC.

Start with These Simple Steps

Keep walkways clear

• Remove clutter, electrical cords, pet toys, and other objects from walking paths.
• Repair or remove loose rugs and mats.
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
• Avoid walking through dark rooms or hallways.
• Clean up spills promptly.
• Keep outdoor walkways clear of pinecones, wet leaves, uneven pavers, and other hazards.

Improve lighting

• Place bright lights near stairs, entrances, hallways, and frequently used rooms.
• Add nightlights between the bedroom and bathroom.
• Install light switches at both ends of stairways when possible.
• Replace burned-out bulbs promptly.
• Use motion-activated lights near exterior entrances.

Make stairs safer

• Keep stairs free of stored items.
• Make sure handrails are secure and extend the full length of the stairs.
• Use handrails rather than carrying items in both hands.
• Mark the edge of steps if changes in depth or color are difficult to see.
• Do not use chairs, boxes, or makeshift steps to reach elevated areas.

Make bathrooms safer

• Install grab bars near toilets and inside tubs and showers.
• Use a non-slip mat or non-slip surface in the shower.
• Consider a shower chair and handheld showerhead.
• Make sure bathroom rugs have non-slip backing.
• Do not rely on towel bars for support; they are not designed to bear a person’s weight.

Wear safe footwear

• Choose properly fitting shoes with non-slip soles.
• Avoid walking in socks on smooth floors.
• Replace worn shoes.
• Talk with a health care professional about foot pain, numbness, or other conditions affecting balance.

Get Off That Ladder

Falls from ladders can cause serious injuries at any age, and recovery may become more difficult as we get older.

Before climbing a ladder to change a bulb, clean a gutter, retrieve an item, or inspect a smoke alarm, ask whether the job can be done another way. Consider asking a family member, neighbor, handyman, or service provider for help. Pride heals faster than a broken hip.

If a ladder must be used:

• Use the correct ladder for the job.
• Place it on a level, stable surface.
• Keep three points of contact with the ladder.
• Never stand on the top step.
• Do not lean or reach beyond the ladder’s side rails.
• Never use a chair, stool, or box as a substitute.

Talk with Your Health Care Provider

Tell your health care provider if you have fallen, feel unsteady, or are worried about falling. Ask about:

• Medications that may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure
• Vision and hearing changes
• Muscle weakness or balance problems
• Foot pain or numbness
• Use of a cane, walker, or other mobility aid
• Physical therapy or balance training

The CDC’s STEADI program includes fall-risk information and educational materials for older adults, caregivers, and health care providers. Explore CDC STEADI resources.

Review Your Home

The AARP HomeFit Guide provides room-by-room ideas for making a home safer, more comfortable, and easier to use as needs change.

Suggested website buttons:

• Learn About Fall Prevention
• Explore the AARP HomeFit Guide
• Find Moore County Fitness Programs