Fall Prevention for Caregivers

Many factors can increase the risk of falls, including:

• Vision loss
• Hearing loss
• Bone density
• Chronic health conditions
• Hazards in the home
• Muscle loss
• Dizziness caused by medication or health conditions
• Arthritis

How caregivers can help prevent falls

The people who care for older adults, either in person or from far away, can be important players in the fight against falls. Caregivers have the power to reduce their loved one’s risk of falling with a falls prevention action plan. Discuss fall risks openly without creating anxiety and involve the older adult in prevention planning. The National Council on Aging has a free falls checkup tool on their website. Consider going through the quiz with your loved one and use the results as an opportunity to discuss things you both can do to prevent falls.

Avoid hazards in the home

The first thing to do is assess their living environment for potential hazards.

Walk through the living space and identify hazards. Remove throw rugs, secure loose carpeting, and ensure walkways are clear of clutter. The CDC provides home fall prevention checklists specifically for older adults that can help guide this process.

Install adequate lighting throughout the home, especially in hallways, stairways, and bathrooms. Consider motion-activated lights for nighttime navigation (both outside and inside) and ensure light switches are easily accessible.

The bathroom is where many serious falls occur due to wet surfaces, hard porcelain, and awkward positioning. Install grab bars near toilets and in showers, use non-slip mats, and consider raised toilet seats.

Elsewhere in the home, ensure handrails are secure on both sides of staircases, mark the edges of steps clearly, and consider adding non-slip strips to steps.

If this all feels overwhelming, keep in mind that many communities have funds set aside to help seniors pay for home modifications. The Veteran’s Administration also has grants available to help fund this for disabled veterans.

Prioritize the older adult’s health

Consult with your loved one’s health care provider to see what exercises are safe for their current health. Regular exercise programs that include activities like tai chi, yoga, and strength training can significantly improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength—all of which are great for preventing falls. These activities also help maintain bone density and overall physical confidence.

Hearing or vision loss can increase fall risk, so make sure to keep current with eye exams. Ask a health care provider about simple hearing tests or if a referral to an audiologist is warranted. Footwear makes a difference, too. Encouraging supportive, well-fitting shoes with non-slip soles while avoiding high heels or loose slippers is a straightforward but effective intervention.

Finally, make sure their medications are up to date. Review what medications and supplements they are currently taking and review the list with a health care provider to see if “deprescribing” may be appropriate.

The most effective fall-prevention approach recognizes that multiple factors contribute to fall risk. By creating safer home environments and helping their loved ones maintain their physical health, caregivers can significantly reduce fall risk while preserving the older adult’s independence and quality of life.