Many families are surprised to learn how common falls are among older adults and how much they can influence both physical and emotional well-being. According to the CDC, more than one in four adults ages 65 and older experience a fall each year, making falls the leading cause of injury in this age group. These incidents can lead to physical injuries as well as hesitation or fear around daily activities.
At Commonwealth Senior Living, we believe that aging should be filled with purpose, joy, and reassurance, not worry. The good news is that many falls are preventable, and with a few thoughtful steps, seniors can remain safe, confident, and active at home. Below are five practical strategies to help support safety:
1. Understand Your Risk Factors
Every person's fall risk is different. Speaking with your doctor is an important first step in fall prevention. They can help identify conditions that may increase risk, such as:
- Muscle weakness
- Vision changes
- Inner-ear and balance issues
- Foot pain or poorly fitting footwear
- Medication interactions that cause dizziness or drowsiness
Knowing your specific risk factors allows you to take targeted, effective preventative steps.
2. Strengthen Your Legs and Build Balance
Regular movement is one of the most effective prevention strategies. Strengthening the lower body improves stability, confidence, and reaction time. A doctor or physical therapist can help recommend the safest exercise program for you or your loved one.
3. Install Grab Bars
Grab bars are simple additions that can make a meaningful difference. Start with high-use areas such as:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Bedside spaces
- Hallways with transitions between flooring types
Additional support features, such as handrails, shower seats, and motion-sensing night lights, can further enhance safety and independence.
4. Wear Nonslip Shoes
Footwear plays a bigger role in fall prevention than many people realize. Shoes with rubber, nonslip soles provide reliable traction on both hard flooring and carpeting. Inside the home, nonslip shower mats, secured rugs, and avoiding overly loose slippers can also help reduce risk.
5. Declutter High Traffic Areas
A clutter-free home is one of the simplest ways to reduce fall risk. Remove or secure items such as:
- Loose cords
- Small throw rugs
- Low furniture
- Pet toys
- Stacked boxes or decor
Rearranging furniture to create wider walkways may also help. If you're unsure where to start, a home safety assessment can offer clear guidance on risks you may not notice day-to-day.
Fall Prevention at Commonwealth Senior Living
At Commonwealth Senior Living, fall prevention is one of our highest priorities. Our communities are intentionally designed to minimize risk and support residents in maintaining independence safely.
"Our communities were specifically built with comfort and safety in mind. That means sturdy handrails in every hallway, clear lighting, and readily available associates to help get to and from activities. Our goal is to improve the lives of seniors, their families, and each other. This means thinking through any obstacle that could create an issue for our residents like rugs, cords, and clutter. You won't see that in our communities," says Kristie Annis, Executive Director Onboarding Specialist at Commonwealth Senior Living.
In addition to safe design and trained associates, our residents benefit from:
- Individualized care plans
- Specially trained associates on site 24/7
- Medication management
- Assistance with daily living
If you're considering a safer living environment for your loved one, we are here to help guide your family with clarity and provide consistent, reliable assistance.
Take the First Step Towards a Safer Home
If you'd like additional guidance on making your home safer, Commonwealth Senior Living offers home safety assessments. Use the button below to connect with the community nearest you.
Request a Complimentary Home Safety Assessment
Risk factors include muscle weakness, vision changes, inner-ear and balance issues, foot pain or poorly fitting footwear, and medication interactions that cause dizziness or drowsiness.
Install grab bars in high-use areas like bathrooms, kitchens, bedside spaces, and hallways for added support.
We help prevent falls by combining safe community design with personalized support. Commonwealth Senior Living provides secure walkways, bright lighting, and accessible handrails, along with individualized care plans, 24/7 trained associates, medication management, and assistance with daily living. These measures work together to reduce risk and support independence.