Each September, we recognize Fall Prevention Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of falls among older adults and the steps families, caregivers, and communities can take to keep seniors safe.
Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries in people aged 65 and older. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four older adults will fall each year. Once a senior experiences one fall, the likelihood of future falls increases significantly.
While the statistics are sobering, the encouraging truth is this: most falls are preventable. By taking proactive steps, families can create safer home environments, support mobility, and help loved ones maintain dignity and quality of life. At Royal Hospice, we know firsthand how important it is to blend safety with compassion — and how small changes can make a lasting difference.
Below, we share seven practical ways to reduce fall risks at home, along with insights for families and caregivers.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
Falls affect more than just physical health. They can have profound consequences — physically, emotionally, and socially. Beyond injuries like fractures or head trauma, a fall can also create fear of falling again. That fear often causes seniors to limit their activity, leading to muscle weakness, social withdrawal, and a decline in overall well-being.
Families may not realize how something as small as a dim hallway light, an untied shoelace, or a medication side effect can trigger a fall. That’s why awareness and prevention matter — and why September is the perfect time to take stock of your loved one’s safety.
1. Clear Pathways and Remove Hazards
A safe environment starts with clutter-free spaces. Seniors need open areas to move confidently without fear of tripping.
Practical tips:
- Remove or secure loose rugs with non-slip pads.
- Tape down electrical cords along walls instead of walkways.
- Rearrange furniture to create wide, clear paths.
- Keep frequently used items (remote controls, glasses, phones) within easy reach.
Think of every object on the floor as a possible hazard. Taking just a few minutes to remove obstacles can help prevent life-changing accidents.
2. Improve Lighting Throughout the Home
Poor lighting is one of the simplest, yet most overlooked, fall risks.
Practical tips:
- Use brighter bulbs in living areas and bedrooms.
- Add night lights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
- Install motion-sensor lights that turn on automatically.
- Ensure stairways are fully lit from top to bottom.
Good lighting doesn’t just prevent falls — it builds confidence, especially during nighttime movement.
3. Supportive Footwear
The right footwear provides stability and grip that can reduce fall risks significantly.
Practical tips:
- Choose non-slip, supportive shoes for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Avoid slick slippers, flip-flops, or socks without grip.
- Make sure shoes fit properly and offer ankle support.
A simple switch in footwear can make daily activities safer and easier.
4. Add Safety Equipment and Home Modifications
Certain areas of the home — like bathrooms, stairs, and entryways — carry higher fall risks. Adding support equipment can make these spaces safer.
Practical tips:
- Install grab bars near toilets and showers.
- Place non-slip mats inside the shower or bathtub.
- Add sturdy handrails on both sides of stairways.
- Use a shower chair or handheld shower head for safer bathing.
- For steps or entryways, consider ramps or stair lifts.
Small modifications often bring both peace of mind and greater independence.
5. Stay Physically Active
Movement strengthens muscles, improves balance, and helps seniors stay steady on their feet.
Practical tips:
- Gentle exercises like walking, tai chi, or water aerobics improve balance.
- Chair exercises are a safe option for those with limited mobility.
- Daily stretching keeps joints flexible.
- Ask a doctor or therapist about customized routines.
Beyond preventing falls, exercise boosts mood, confidence, and overall well-being.
6. Manage Medications
Medications can sometimes cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blood pressure changes — all of which increase fall risks.
Practical tips:
- Review medications with a healthcare provider annually.
- Ask about side effects that may impact balance.
- Use pill organizers to prevent dosage errors.
- Report dizziness, fatigue, or confusion promptly.
Medication reviews are an often-overlooked step in fall prevention, but one of the most vital.
7. Regular Vision and Hearing Checks
Healthy vision and hearing help seniors stay aware of their surroundings and maintain balance.
Practical tips:
- Schedule yearly eye exams and hearing checks.
- Keep glasses and hearing aids updated and clean.
- Add contrast (such as colored tape on stair edges) for visibility.
Sharp vision and hearing don’t just keep seniors safe — they also allow them to move with greater independence and confidence.
The Emotional Side of Fall Prevention
It’s natural for seniors to resist certain changes in their homes. Many feel that adding grab bars or using mobility aids threatens their independence. Families may hear: “I don’t need that,” or “I don’t want to exercise.”
Approach these conversations gently. Emphasize that fall prevention is not about limiting freedom, but about empowering independence. Small adjustments are simply tools to help loved ones keep enjoying life safely.
How Royal Hospice Can Help
At Royal Hospice, we know fall prevention is about much more than safety checklists. It’s about:
- Preserving dignity and independence.
- Offering compassionate support for daily activities.
- Providing reassurance for families who want peace of mind.
- Creating safe environments where seniors can thrive.
Our care team understands the balance between safety and comfort. Through personalized support, we help families make practical changes while honoring each senior’s independence and wishes.
Every step we take is guided by compassion, dignity, and expertise — ensuring seniors remain safe, comfortable, and connected to what matters most.
What Actions Should I Take Next?
If you or your loved one have been advised to consider either Palliative or Hospice care, it is important to understand the options available to you. There are many companies to choose from, but it is critically important to find a company that is ethical and truly puts quality patient care at the forefront. Hospice Fraud is a real thing so make sure you do not feel pressured and understand all the benefits you and/or your loved one is elidable to receive.
If you’re considering hospice care or palliative care for a loved one, reach out to our team to learn more about your options. We’re here to support you during this challenging time as we believe in personalized care plans and a concierge approach to patient care. We call it “The Royal Difference”.
Please call or email us at (480) 626-4242 or info@royalhospice.com to see what other patients families say about our services as we are very proud of our 5 star google reviews. We will provide insight over phone from our Healthcare Advisor or will plan a time that works for you to meet with the patient and their family. We are here for you!
You can also see videos of the Hospice process and meet our team on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@royalhospice.
Our company is a proud member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), supporting ethical, high-quality end-of-life care.
Our company is ACHC Accredited, an honor granted by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), which recognizes organizations that exceed care standards. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) only grants its coveted deeming authority designation to select national accreditation organizations that consistently exceed expectations.
Royal Hospice is also affiliated with Vital Palliative Care (www.vitalpalliative.com) and ComForCare Home Care in Scottsdale/Phoenix area of AZ. (www.comforcare.com/scottsdale). This enables us to provide a Continuum of Care to support family and patient’s needs.
