Every year, millions of older adults experience a fall, and many occur inside the home during everyday activities like walking to the bathroom, climbing stairs, or reaching into a cabinet. According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and older, resulting in millions of emergency department visits annually. That being said, many falls are preventable with a combination of home improvements, healthy habits, and regular medical checkups.
Occupational therapists often recommend completing a home safety assessment before mobility problems become severe. Small changes made early are typically easier and less expensive than extensive modifications after a serious fall. Evidence-based home assessment programs have been shown to reduce fall risk among community-dwelling older adults. So, let’s take a look at five simple home adjustments you can make that will reduce your risk of falling.
