September is National Falls Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about one of the most common—and most preventable—health risks for older adults. Falls are not just accidents; they can lead to serious injuries, long-term complications, and a loss of independence. The good news is that there are clear steps you can take to reduce fall risks at home and protect yourself or your loved ones.
👉 Download our Free Printable Fall Prevention Home Safety Guide to walk room by room through your home and identify simple improvements that can help prevent falls.
Why Falls Prevention Matters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year.
Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall-related injury.
Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults over 65.
The average hospital cost for a fall injury exceeds $30,000.
Beyond the statistics, the effects of a fall can be life-changing. A single fall may result in broken bones, head injuries, or lasting mobility challenges that make it difficult to live independently.
Common Causes of Falls
Understanding the factors that contribute to falls is the first step in prevention. Some of the most common causes include:
Cluttered pathways or loose rugs that create tripping hazards
Poor lighting, especially on stairways and in hallways
Slippery surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms
Balance issues or dizziness caused by medical conditions or medications
Weakness in the legs or core muscles, making stability harder to maintain
Difficulty navigating stairs, which can be physically demanding for those with joint pain, heart conditions, or limited mobility
Tips to Prevent Falls at Home
Taking preventive steps can significantly reduce the likelihood of falls. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Improve Your Environment
Keep hallways and stairways free of clutter
Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and kitchens
Install proper lighting in all rooms, including night lights in bedrooms and hallways
2. Add Supportive Equipment
Install grab bars in bathrooms near toilets and showers
Add handrails on both sides of staircases
Consider using mobility aids such as walkers or canes when needed
Stairlifts can make multi-story homes safer by removing the risk of stair-related falls
3. Focus on Physical Health
Engage in exercises that improve balance and strength, such as yoga, tai chi, or light resistance training
Schedule regular vision and hearing checks, since poor eyesight and hearing can increase fall risk
Review medications with a healthcare provider to identify side effects like dizziness or drowsiness
4. Take Extra Care Outdoors
Keep outdoor walkways clear of leaves, snow, and ice
Use sturdy railings and outdoor lighting near steps and entryways
The Cost of a Fall vs. The Cost of Prevention
Falls can have devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences. In comparison, making small changes in your home or investing in accessibility solutions can save both money and peace of mind. For example, a stairlift or grab bars are one-time investments that may prevent an expensive hospital stay and months of recovery.
How Freedom Mobility Solutions Can Help
At Freedom Mobility Solutions, our mission is to help families create safer homes and reduce fall risks. We offer:
Professional installation of stairlifts, ramps, grab bars, and other accessibility equipment
Expert consultations to identify safety risks in your home
Rental and purchase options to fit your needs and budget
This Falls Prevention Month, we are offering FREE professional stairlift installation through September 30th to help more families stay safe and independent at home.
👉 Don’t forget to download your free Fall Prevention Home Safety Guide here: Download Now