Fall Prevention
1 in 4 seniors falls each year. Prevent it.
Top home hazards
- Loose rugs — tape down or remove.
- Dim hallways — add motion-sensor night lights ($15 set of 6).
- Wet bathroom floors — non-slip mat + grab bars.
- Cluttered floors — clear walking paths.
- Long pet leashes / tangled cords.
- Stairs without handrails — install both sides.
Bathroom upgrades ($50-300)
- Grab bars (not towel bars) — $20-40 each.
- Shower bench — $40-100.
- Raised toilet seat — $30-60.
- Non-slip bath mat — $15.
- Walk-in tub if budget allows ($2-10K).
- Medicare may cover with doctor prescription.
Strength + balance exercises
- Tai Chi — proven to reduce falls 30%+.
- Sit-to-stands — 10 reps, 2x/day.
- Heel-to-toe walking — 20 steps daily.
- Single-leg stand (hold counter) — 30 sec each leg.
- Silver Sneakers (free with most Medicare Advantage).
- YMCA fall-prevention classes.
Medical fall risks
- Annual eye exam — vision changes cause falls.
- Annual hearing test — balance + hearing linked.
- Review meds with pharmacist — many cause dizziness.
- Vitamin D check — low D = weaker bones.
- Blood pressure when standing — orthostatic drop = fall risk.
Tech that helps
Apple Watch fall detection — auto-calls 911 + emergency contacts. Medical alert pendants (Lively, Medical Guardian) — $20-40/mo. Ring/Nest cameras — family can check in. See /tools/medical-alert-comparison.