According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury in adults, age 65 and older—and 37% of those falls result in injuries that require medical care or limit activity. While falls can be dangerous, many are preventable. Simple changes can make a big difference in preventing falls and giving families peace of mind, both at home and in senior living communities. Here are seven ways to help make your loved one’s environment safer.

1. Rearrange Furniture

Aim for wider spaces between furniture pieces to keep busy areas of the home clear and reduce the risk of tripping or falling. Simplify the furniture layout by moving extra pieces to a spare room or storage area. Consider selling or donating unneeded furniture.

2. Add Non-slip Mats and Area Rugs

Non-carpeted floors can be slippery and increase the risk of falls. Non-slip mats are especially helpful in areas prone to spills or moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens. High-traffic spots like hallways and doorways can also benefit from the added protection of non-slip mats.

In other parts of the home, large area rugs can provide coverage in spaces like the dining room, living room, and bedrooms. Carpeted areas are generally less slippery than hardwood or similar flooring. When using area rugs, secure the corners with adhesive rug tabs to keep them flat and prevent bunching. This reduces tripping hazards, especially from corners that may curl or lift.

3. Install Grab Bars and Handrails

Grab bars and handrails can help provide additional support for older adults in bathrooms, on stairs, hallways, and other areas of the home. They’re also a safety device. When a person falls, they will often try to reach out and grab hold of something to stop their downward motion.

These can assist with getting into and out of the bathtub or shower, standing up after using the toilet, or getting out of bed in the morning. Wall-mounted grab bars can provide leverage, and stability, making transitions easier. Raised toilet seats (especially those with handles) can also make sitting down and standing up easier, safer and more comfortable

4. Monitor Medications

Make sure your loved one is taking their prescribed medications properly. Missing doses can lead to symptoms like blood pressure changes or dizziness that can increase the risk of falls. Using pill organizers, reminders, and other tracking systems can help them stay on track.

Conversely, taking too many medications can increase the risk of drug interactions and cause symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, or confusion, which can result in falls. If your loved one takes several medications regularly, make sure you work with your loved one’s doctor or pharmacist to monitor them for drug safety.

5. Avoid Clutter

One of the simplest ways to prevent falls is by reducing clutter, especially in high-traffic areas. Keep floors clear of tripping hazards, for example, children’s and pets’ toys, could cause a fall for older adults who may have difficulty stepping over them. Be proactive by putting away loose papers, remote controls, and other small items that might slip off tables or end up on the floor.

6. Be Aware of Pets

While pets often mean well, an excited or distracted animal can unintentionally cause a fall for an older adult. For example, a dog greeting someone enthusiastically might knock them off balance, or a pet moving underfoot while they walk could create a tripping hazard. If you think this may be a concern, it may be best to keep pets in another room when your loved one is visiting or wait to bring them out (or remove from a leash) until your loved one is seated comfortably.

7. Invest in a Life Monitoring Service

A wearable life monitoring device can be an important tool in both preventing and responding to falls. These devices, often worn as a wristband, smartwatch, pendant, or clip, allow your loved one to call for help with the press of a button. Some models can even detect a fall automatically and notify emergency services or family members. While the main benefit is quick access to help if a fall occurs, these devices can also provide peace of mind.

When older adults feel more secure knowing they’ll get help right away, they may move around more confidently and with less hesitation—reducing the likelihood of unsteady movements that could lead to a fall.

Falls can have serious consequences, but many can be prevented with adjustments to the home and daily routines. By reducing hazards, adding supportive equipment, and planning for quick access to help if needed, your loved one can continue to live safely. Taking these steps not only lowers the risk of falls but can bring peace of mind to the whole family.

Peace of Mind at Marjorie P. Lee

For many families, ensuring the safety of every part of the home can be challenging. Continuing care retirement communities like Marjorie P. Lee in Hyde Park, Ohio, can help. Although we understand that falls cannot be prevented, communities are designed with safety and person-centeredness in mind. With features such as accessible and ability-friendly amenities, fall-reduction protocols, call systems, and supportive staff, we can help reduce falls.

Is it the right time for senior living at a continuing care retirement community? Complete our free (and quick) 4–5-minute survey to learn more about which living options may be the best fit for you and your family.