A room-by-room checklist for preventing falls at home

According to the CDC, about one in four adults aged 65 and older reports a fall each year, and falls are the leading cause of injury in that age group. Most of them happen at home.

The encouraging part: falls are not an inevitable part of aging. A combination of strength and balance work and a few changes to the home can meaningfully reduce risk. Here's the walkthrough a physical therapist might do on a home visit.

Entryways and stairs

• Light both ends. Every staircase should have a light switch at the top and the bottom.
• Rails on both sides, running the full length of the stairs, sturdy enough to bear weight.
• Mark the edges. A strip of contrasting tape on the edge of each step helps tired or aging eyes judge depth.
• Nothing on the steps. Not even "just for a minute."

Living areas

• Clear walking paths. Move cords, magazine baskets and low furniture out of the routes you use most.
• Rethink loose rugs. Remove them, or secure them firmly with non-slip backing.
• Check chair height. A chair with arms that's not too low makes standing up safer and easier.

Bathroom

The bathroom combines hard surfaces, water and frequent transitions — which makes it one of the highest-risk rooms.

• Install grab bars by the toilet and in the shower or tub. Towel bars are not grab bars.
• Non-slip mats inside and outside the tub.
• Consider a shower chair and a handheld showerhead if standing for long is difficult.
• Night lights on the path between bedroom and bathroom.

Bedroom

• A lamp you can reach from bed without stretching.
• Sit before you stand. Pause at the edge of the bed for a moment before getting up, especially at night, to let your blood pressure catch up.
• Phone within reach, so help is never far away.

Beyond the house

Home changes help, but the body matters too:

• Strength and balance training is one of the most effective ways to reduce fall risk. A physical therapist can design a program that's challenging but safe.
• Review medications with your doctor or pharmacist — some cause dizziness or drowsiness.
• Have your eyes checked at least once a year, and update glasses.
• Wear supportive shoes indoors rather than socks or loose slippers.

If you've fallen before, or worry about falling, that's reason enough to talk to a clinician. Fear of falling often leads people to move less — which, ironically, raises the risk.

A Bluefin balance and fall-prevention visit includes a full assessment and a walkthrough of your own home. If that sounds helpful for you or someone you care for, request a visit.

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This article is general information, not medical advice. Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Older Adult Fall Prevention.