Fall Prevention for Older Adults: Practical Steps to Stay Safe at Home

Falls are a serious health concern for older adults. According to the CDC, falls caused more than 43,000 deaths among adults 65 and older in 2024, making them the leading cause of injury death in that age group, and there were about 4.5 million emergency department visits for older adult falls.

But falling is not a normal or unavoidable part of aging. The CDC emphasizes that falls can be prevented. Here's how to reduce your risk.

Why older adults fall

Falls usually result from a combination of factors. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) and CDC describe common risk factors, including:

• Muscle weakness, especially in the legs
• Balance and walking problems
• Medications that cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure — including some sleep aids, pain medicines, and blood pressure medicines
• Vision problems
• Foot pain or poor footwear
• Home hazards such as clutter, loose rugs, poor lighting, and lack of handrails
• Chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or stroke
• Dizziness when standing up too quickly

1. Talk with your healthcare provider

Tell your provider if you've fallen, feel unsteady, or worry about falling. Ask them to:

• Evaluate your fall risk and discuss ways to reduce it
• Review all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, for side effects that could increase your risk
• Check your feet, and refer you to a specialist if needed
• Consider vitamin D and bone health, and whether you need a bone density test

The CDC also offers a free Falls Free CheckUp questionnaire to help assess your risk — bring the results to your appointment. Our guide on preparing for a doctor's visit can help you make the most of the conversation.

2. Do strength and balance exercises

Exercise that improves leg strength and balance is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls. Options include:

• Tai chi
• Chair stands
• Standing on one foot while holding a counter
• Heel-to-toe walking
• Strength training with light weights or bands

See exercise for older adults for a full routine. Physical therapists can design a personalized program if you have balance problems.

3. Get your eyes checked

Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year, and update your glasses as needed. Be cautious with bifocals or progressive lenses on stairs and curbs.

4. Make your home safer

Most falls happen at home. Walk through each room and look for hazards.

Floors and walkways

• Remove clutter, cords, and papers from walkways
• Remove throw rugs or secure them with double-sided tape or non-slip backing
• Arrange furniture to create clear paths

Stairs

• Install handrails on both sides
• Make sure stairs are well lit, with light switches at the top and bottom
• Fix loose or uneven steps

Bathroom

• Install grab bars inside and next to the tub or shower and next to the toilet
• Use non-slip mats in the tub or shower and on the bathroom floor
• Consider a shower chair and handheld shower head

Bedroom

• Place a lamp within easy reach of the bed
• Use night-lights along the path to the bathroom
• Keep a phone near the bed

Kitchen

• Keep frequently used items within easy reach
• Use a sturdy step stool with a handle — never a chair

5. Wear safe footwear

Choose shoes with non-slip soles and good support. Avoid walking in socks, loose slippers, or high heels.

6. Stand up slowly

If you feel dizzy when getting up, sit on the edge of the bed for a moment before standing. Tell your provider about dizziness, as it may be related to medications or blood pressure.

7. Stay healthy overall

• Get enough sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Limit alcohol
• Eat a balanced diet with enough calcium, vitamin D, and protein — see healthy eating after 60

If you fall

• Stay calm and check yourself for injuries before trying to get up
• If you can, roll to your side, crawl to a sturdy chair, and slowly get up
• If you're hurt or can't get up, call for help
• Consider a medical alert device or keep a phone with you at all times
• Tell your healthcare provider about any fall, even if you weren't hurt

The bottom line

Falls are common but often preventable. Talk with your healthcare provider, review medications, do strength and balance exercises, check your vision, and make simple home safety changes. These steps can help you stay safe, confident, and independent.