Tips to minimize the risks of falls in your home

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among adults ages 65 and older. Of these falls, Minnesota ranks among the states with the highest death rate from falls in older adults.

Fall rates continue to rise each year and the risk of falling can significantly impact a senior’s safety and ability to remain independent in their home. Certain conditions contribute to an increased risk of falling such as vitamin D deficiency, lower body weakness, vision problems, difficulty with balance or walking, and more.

“Home hazards attribute to many of these falls. Most are preventable and typically occur in living rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms and on stairs,” explained Katrina Trent, PT, DPT, Ridgeview. Trent shares tips and best practices to prevent falls.

Five tips to prevent falls in your home

1. Tack rugs down. Tack rugs down to avoid catching your foot on a loose edge. Remove or replace rugs or runners that tend to slip or attach nonslip backing.
2. Add grab bars. Add grab bars in the shower, tub and toilet areas. “You will never regret installing these safety features, usable by young and old, alike,” Trent shared.
3. Use night lights. Use night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways. Motion-sensitive lights are a great way to briefly light up a dark hallway as you walk by. Have a lamp or light switch that you can easily reach without getting out of your bed.
4. Install railings. Consider installing a railing on both sides of any stairs entering and throughout your home. “You’d be surprised how difficult it can be to use stairs when your balance or leg strength is impaired,” Trent said.
5. Carry your phone. Always carry your phone with you—you never know when you might need it to call for help. If carrying your phone isn’t feasible, consider wearing an alarm device that alerts someone if you fall.

Medication awareness and physical activity are key to prevention

It’s important to review your medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, with your health care provider or pharmacist to understand which medicines can make you drowsy or unsteady. You should also have your vision and hearing tested regularly. Vision problems can make it difficult to see potential hazards and inner ear problems can affect your balance, making you unsteady on your feet.

Regular physical activity is an effective way to stay in shape and prevent falls. Strength and balance exercises can significantly reduce your risk of falling. Talk to your health care provider if you have specific concerns about falling or if you need help getting started with an exercise routine that can help lower your risk.