You might be surprised to learn that falls remain a leading cause of serious injury and loss of life among older adults. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that one in four older adults experiences a fall every year. That adds up to 14 million people over the age of 65! In 2021 alone, falls caused 38,000 deaths among older adults and 3 million visits to hospital emergency departments. Many of these falls might have been preventable, however, with the right strategies and aids.
Whether you are indoors at your senior living community, outside soaking up the beauty of the campus, or enjoying an outing with friends, there are steps you can take to stay safer. It starts with identifying potential hazards and learning how to use mobility aids effectively, if they are needed.
Recognizing Indoor Hazards
Most falls occur inside the home, often in areas we consider familiar and safe. Over time, objects accumulate, lighting dims, and routines change. Each of these can create hidden dangers for seniors:
Clutter and obstacles
Loose items such as books, newspapers, shoes, electrical cords, and small furniture pieces often become tripping hazards. Keeping pathways clear, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms, can reduce the likelihood of catching a foot on something unexpected.
Lighting issues
Dim lighting, such as from burned-out bulbs, can make it difficult to see obstacles. Ensure each room is well-lit, and install night-lights in bathrooms, hallways, and bedrooms. Motion-activated lights are an excellent option, offering hands-free illumination during nighttime trips. If an overhead bulb burns out, let your maintenance team know. Don’t try to climb on a step stool to change it on your own.
Bathroom risks
Water on smooth surfaces creates ideal conditions for slipping. Nonslip mats, grab bars near toilets and inside showers, and raised toilet seats enhance stability. Be sure to utilize them in your apartment or villa. Talk with staff about installing a shower chair if balance is becoming a concern.
Throw rugs
While accent rugs can add charm and visual appeal to your space, they can also present tripping hazards. If you aren’t willing to pack them away, use heavy-duty double-sided tape or rug anchors to secure rugs to the floor. Also, if you notice places where your carpeting or flooring is pulling up or in need of repair, be sure to let the maintenance team know about it.
Navigating Outdoor Hazards
Outdoor environments can be unpredictable. Weather, terrain, and surfaces vary throughout the day and across the seasons. But the mental and physical health benefits of connecting with nature are hard to ignore. Here are a few outdoor fall prevention strategies to keep in mind:
Uneven ground and cracks
Sidewalk cracks, loose gravel, and uneven grass can cause sudden ankle twists or loss of balance. Walking slowly, scanning ahead, and wearing supportive footwear can help compensate for unstable surfaces.
Weather-related risks
Rain, snow, ice, and wet leaves all increase slipperiness. In colder months, consider waiting for walkways to be cleared before heading out. During rainy seasons, choose shoes with good tread and wipe your feet carefully before entering buildings.
Garden hazards
Many of our PSL campuses have outdoor spaces for residents to plant and nurture a garden. It’s a great activity for the body, mind, and spirit. But tools dropped around the garden, hoses strung across walkways, and uneven landscaping can create tripping hazards. Be sure to keep your garden area organized and ensure commonly used paths are clear.
Using Mobility Aids Effectively
Fall prevention isn’t about restricting mobility and keeping you stuck at home. But staying active and on the move may require you to invest in devices and aids that help you stay safe while you are on the go.
Mobility aids play a vital role in preventing falls. When chosen and used correctly, they offer support, enhance balance, and provide confidence during movement. Here are a few to explore:
Canes
A properly fitted cane should reach the crease of your wrist when you are standing upright. Canes help reduce pressure on painful joints and provide light balance support. To maintain good traction, replace rubber tips as soon as they show wear.
Walkers
A step up from a cane is a walker, which offers more stability and security. For indoor use, choose a model that fits comfortably through doorways. A walker with larger wheels can increase maneuverability when you are outside.
Rollators
These wheeled walkers include a seat and hand brakes for added safety. You can use the brakes to slow down while walking, or for greater stability while sitting down. These are ideal for residents who want to walk longer distances but need to periodically stop and take a break.
Footwear
Finally, don’t overlook what you wear on your feet. Supportive shoes with low heels and nonslip soles significantly improve stability. Avoid loose-fitting slippers and flip-flops, which can increase tripping risk.
The Bottom Line
Fall prevention is about making everyday activities and movements safer and helping you feel more confident. By identifying hazards—indoors and out—and by selecting and using mobility aids properly, you can reduce the risk of injury.