Preventing Falls at Home: A Complete Guide for Older Adults and Families
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults — and most of them happen at home.
During Fall Prevention Awareness Week and throughout the year, it’s important to remember that falls are not a normal part of aging. They are preventable.
As a firefighter-owned safety education company serving Arizona families, we have responded to countless fall-related emergencies. Many of these incidents could have been prevented with simple, proactive safety measures.
Here’s what every family should know.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- 1 in 4 older adults falls each year
- Falls are a leading cause of injury-related death among adults 65+
- Most falls happen in and around the home
Beyond physical injury, falls can lead to:
- Loss of independence
- Fear of falling again
- Reduced mobility
- Hospitalizations and long-term rehabilitation
The good news? Small changes make a big difference.
Common Causes of Falls in Older Adults
1. Clutter and Tripping Hazards
- Loose rugs
- Electrical cords across walkways
- Shoes or objects left on floors
- Uneven flooring
2. Poor Lighting
- Dim hallways
- No night lights
- Staircases without proper illumination
3. Bathroom Hazards
- Slippery tubs or showers
- No grab bars
- No non-slip mats
4. Stairs Without Safety Features
- Missing handrails
- Worn or slick steps
- Clutter on stairs
5. Medication Side Effects
Certain prescriptions can cause dizziness or balance issues. Regular medication reviews are critical.
Simple Home Modifications That Prevent Falls
You do not need a full remodel to make a home safer. Start with these high-impact changes:
Improve Lighting
- Install brighter bulbs
- Add motion sensor lights
- Use night lights in bedrooms and bathrooms
Remove Tripping Hazards
- Secure or remove loose rugs
- Tuck away cords
- Keep walkways clear
Bathroom Safety Upgrades
- Install grab bars near toilets and showers
- Add non-slip mats
- Consider a shower chair
Stair Safety
- Install sturdy handrails on both sides
- Add non-slip stair treads
- Keep stairs clutter-free
Health Factors That Reduce Fall Risk
Safety is not just environmental — it’s physical too.
Encourage older adults to:
- Stay physically active (balance and strength exercises are key)
- Have regular vision checks
- Review medications with a healthcare provider
- Wear properly fitted, supportive shoes
- Use assistive devices (canes/walkers) when needed
Prevention works best when home safety and personal health work together.
Warning Signs That a Home May Not Be Safe
You may need a safety assessment if:
- A loved one has already fallen
- They hold onto furniture while walking
- There is visible clutter
- Lighting is poor
- They express fear of falling
A professional home safety review can identify hidden hazards most families overlook.
Fall Prevention Is a Family Responsibility
Many families assume, “It won’t happen to us.”
But falls often happen in familiar environments — not risky ones.
If you have an aging parent, grandparent, or neighbor, now is the time to:
- Walk through their home
- Identify hazards
- Make simple improvements
- Schedule a professional safety evaluation
Don’t Wait for a Fall to Take Action
At Home Hazard Prevention, we provide comprehensive home safety assessments, fall prevention education, and customized recommendations for families throughout the Southeast Valley.
We are firefighter-owned and prevention-focused. We have seen firsthand how devastating preventable falls can be.
Let us help you reduce risk before an emergency happens.
Schedule your Fall Prevention Home Safety Assessment today.
📞 Call 480-448-0266 to protect the people you love.
Because safety should never be left to chance.