Risk-free, no obligation consultation

Blog

Celebrate Fall Without Falls: Fall Prevention for Seniors

October 8, 2023
A woman stands smiling and holding onto a walker as she focuses on fall prevention for seniors.

Fall prevention for seniors starts with an assessment of the home and some simple modifications.


Senior falls are all too common, and often lead to serious injury. As a caregiver for an older loved one, it’s crucial to focus on fall prevention for seniors. This includes assessing the home for fall hazards (throw rugs, cords, clutter, low furniture, etc.), as well as making sure there is sufficient lighting, appropriate use of grab bars and railings, and more.

Additionally, it’s important to know that if someone does begin to stumble, there are ways to fall more safely, which can cut down on fall-related hospital visits by as much as 40%.

Together, by implementing tactics for fall prevention for seniors and by helping older loved ones know what to do if they begin to fall, serious injuries can be thwarted. Start with these tips:

To Prevent Falls

  • Assess the home:
    • Be sure that all walking paths, both inside and outside of the home, are clear.
    • Check to make sure grab bars beside the tub and toilet are sturdy and can hold your weight—or add them if no grab bars are in place.
    • Keep all floors clean and dry.
    • Make sure handrails are in place and secure alongside all staircases.
    • Remove all loose rugs and replace any worn carpeting.
  • Encourage balance strengthening: Exercises as simple as raising one foot slightly off the floor and balancing on the other foot for 30 seconds (and then repeating with the other foot) can be extremely helpful.
  • Optimize vision. Make sure the senior routinely receives eye exams and wears eyeglasses when prescribed.

If a Fall Does Occur

  • Prevent head injuries by turning your face away from the fall or tucking your chin to your chest if falling backwards.
  • Bend the knees and elbows to prevent the rigidness that can lead to a bone fracture as you try to catch your fall.
  • Roll through the fall, which distributes the impact of the fall over a greater portion of the body rather than concentrating it in one area.
  • Aim to land on fatty tissue, like the bottom or thighs, and not on bony surfaces like the knees, hips, or elbows.

At Home Matters Caregiving, our staff is experienced in assessing the home environment for fall risks and ensuring the home is as safe and secure from falls as possible. We can also improve fall prevention for seniors by offering support during walking and transfers, helping boost safety during baths or showers, and helping a senior engage in doctor-approved exercise programs to build strength, balance, and flexibility.

Contact us at 800-298-5140 to learn more about our customized in-home care services for seniors and how we can help improve safety and comfort at home. To find out if our services are available in your area, visit our Locations page.

Share this article
About the author

Tyler Williams

As an Area Owner and Operator of a Home Matters Caregiving franchise, I am committed to ensuring exceptional outcomes for our valued clients and caregivers. My passion for elevating our service quality is matched by my role as a blogger and social media manager for the franchise, where I share insights, updates, and foster community engagement. Prior to senior care, I used my strategic communication and brand development skills as the Marketing Director of a regional bank. My diverse experience supports my commitment to excellence and innovation in both healthcare and digital communication.
Related Posts

Looking for Senior Care Franchise?

Home Matters Caregiving

Customer care
5.0

Based on 340 Google reviews

“I love how supportive and dependable Home Matters was for my Grandmother during the time we had their services. Their caregivers are dependable and very attentive to their clients!”
Tiffany C
“We had some hiccups with another agency and then found Home Matters through a friend! They made sure we were heard and their scheduling team is very communicative! Very happy with HMC!”
Joshua Clasberry
“I am so grateful. All staff members were friendly, courteous and kind. I would recommend them to everyone that needs help in their home! They are rock stars!!!”
Kathleen Light
“Home Matters Caregiving has been taking care of my mother full time now for over 3 years. They are committed to helping people and always work hard to find the best caregivers possible.”
Pam Knell