Educational Article
Preventing Falls
Home safety tips and daily habits that help older adults stay steady, confident, and independent.
Make the home safer
Remove loose rugs, clear clutter from walkways, and ensure stairways and bathrooms have sturdy handrails or grab bars. Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
Improve lighting in hallways, bedrooms, and outdoor paths. Nightlights in bathrooms and bedrooms reduce risk during overnight trips.
Support strength and balance
Ask your clinician about appropriate activity, including balance and strength exercises. Wear supportive, non-slip footwear indoors and outdoors.
Stand up slowly after sitting or lying down. If dizziness is frequent, report it promptly—medication side effects and blood pressure changes are common contributors.
Have a plan
Keep a phone within reach and consider a medical alert device if you live alone. After any fall—even without obvious injury—tell your healthcare provider.
Prestwell Continuum offers fall risk assessment and home safety evaluation as part of concierge nursing services.
Printable checklist
Take a practical checklist version of this topic with you.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always follow guidance from your licensed healthcare providers. Call 911 for emergencies.