The Safe Harbor Journal

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Falls are the leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults. However, most falls are not an inevitable part of aging - they are preventable events caused by environmental hazards, medication side effects, or physical weaknesses that can be directly addressed.

 

Key Fall Risk Factors

A comprehensive fall prevention strategy addresses both internal and external risk factors:

• Environmental Hazards: Poor lighting, loose throw rugs, clutter, lack of grab bars, and slippery floor surfaces.

• Physical Factors: Muscle weakness, joint stiffness, poor balance, and vision decline.

• Medications: Prescriptions that cause dizziness, drowsiness, or sudden drops in blood pressure (orthostatic hypotension).

 

Room-by-Room Home Safety Audit

 

Entryways & Hallways

[ ] Clear all walkways of shoes, umbrella stands, cords, and clutter.

[ ] Ensure outdoor steps have sturdy handrails on both sides.

[ ] Install motion-activated nightlights along hallway corridors.

[ ] Remove all unanchored throw rugs or secure them firmly with double-sided rug tape.

 

Living Room

[ ] Arrange furniture to create wide, clear pathways for walking or mobility devices.

[ ] Replace low or overly soft chairs with firm seating that has sturdy armrests for easier standing.

[ ] Secure electrical and phone cords behind furniture, away from walking areas.

 

Bathroom (Highest Risk Area)

[ ] Install professionally anchored grab bars inside the shower/tub and beside the toilet (never rely on towel racks).

[ ] Place non-slip rubber mats or adhesive strips inside the tub or shower pan.

[ ] Use a raised toilet seat and a sturdy shower chair if standing causes fatigue or unsteadiness.

 

Bedroom

[ ] Place a lamp and phone within easy reach of the bed.

[ ] Install nightlights between the bed and the bathroom pathway.

[ ] Keep the floor clear of blankets, clothes, and clutter.

 

Kitchen

[ ] Store frequently used items on middle shelves (between waist and eye level) to avoid reaching or bending.

[ ] Never use a chair as a step stool; purchase a wide-base step stool with a high safety handrail if necessary.

 

Physical & Health Steps to Prevent Falls

• Schedule a Medication Review: Ask a doctor or pharmacist to review all medications for interactions that cause dizziness or lethargy.

• Engage in Balance & Strength Exercises: Recommend local programs such as Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention or physical therapy for gait training.

• Get Annual Vision & Hearing Checks: Outdated prescription glasses or unmanaged inner ear issues significantly impair spatial awareness and balance.