Assess your own fall risk through this short questionnaire.

People in our mid-40s don’t usually think much about fall risk (hint: we should). Even those who’ve already taken a spill often brush it off as “just tripping” or “moving too fast.” I’ve heard all the excuses, but rarely see changes made—because most people assume they’ll be fine.

The truth is, it only takes one fall to throw life off track. So why not plan ahead a little?

We’re taught from a young age to plan financially—save, invest, build security for the future. But how often do we think about planning for our physical future? How well our bodies will hold up is just as important as how our bank accounts do.

The NCOA's Falls Free CheckUp is a quick questionnaire—not exhaustive, but a smart starting point. It helps you see where you stand (pun intended) and gives you a reason to start thinking about fall prevention earlier. Normalizing these conversations now can make a huge difference later, both for ourselves and for those we care about.

Unique smart devices… and then a few more familiar ones to reduce fall risk

Technology isn’t just about convenience anymore — it’s becoming an important part of keeping us safe at home. For older adults, or anyone concerned about fall risk, smart devices can offer peace of mind and an extra layer of protection. They don’t replace good lighting, safe flooring, or grab bars, but they can make daily life safer and easier to navigate, especially when the person at risk lives alone.

Specialized Aging-in-Place Devices

Hello Everyday: Worried about whether your loved one is up and moving around their house? This device detects movement patterns and can provide daily (or as often as you set up) updates to family/friends/caregivers over a cellular network — no WiFi needed. While my knowledge of this device is coming from trusted colleagues, I plan on ordering one to try out for my loved one who does not have home internet and lives alone! Go to Hello Everyday to see if this could work for you or your loved one. (I will be reporting back once I’ve set it up for my family, so STAY TUNED!)

Lotus Ring: You know how when you’re watching television in a dark room and you turn the TV off to go to bed, all of a sudden the darkness of room envelops you? This ring uses infrared technology and simple-to-install wall switch covers to control lights, fans, even televisions, all with a device worn on an index finger. No more stumbling through the dark and hoping to make it to bed safely. Go to Lotus to learn more.

Smart Devices to Help Reduce Fall Risk

• Smart Lighting

  • Motion-activated lights that automatically turn on when you enter a room.

  • Smart bulbs you can control with your phone or voice, so you don’t have to fumble for switches in the dark.

• Voice Assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Home)

  • Hands-free way to turn on lights, call a family member, or set reminders.

  • Reduce the need to rush across the room to grab a phone or remote.

• Fall Detection Wearables

  • Smartwatches and pendants with built-in sensors that detect sudden movement or impact.

  • Automatically alert caregivers or emergency services if a fall is detected.

• Smart Cameras and Sensors

  • Discreet indoor cameras (with consent) or motion sensors to monitor movement patterns.

  • Caregivers can check in remotely if something seems off.

• Smart Medication Dispensers

  • Timed reminders and automatic dispensing reduce the risk of dizziness or confusion from missed or double doses.

  • Some models alert caregivers if doses are skipped.

• Connected Doorbells and Locks

  • Avoid rushing to answer the door—video doorbells let you see and speak to visitors from wherever you are.

  • Smart locks can be opened with a phone or voice command, preventing slips while fumbling with keys.

Why These Devices Matter

Falls often happen in moments of distraction or when someone feels rushed. By removing the need to bend, reach, or move quickly in unsafe conditions, smart devices make daily living a little safer. They also provide reassurance for both individuals and their families, knowing help is always within reach.

Quick Tip: 5 Minutes to a Safer Home

One of the easiest ways to cut fall risk? Clear the pathways you walk every day. Shoes by the door, towels crumpled and damp on the bathroom floor, laundry baskets in the hall, and charging cords across the living room are some of the most common tripping hazards I see in homes.

A five-minute tidy-up can be just as powerful as expensive safety equipment.

Fuel for Balance: The Link Between Diet, Hydration, and Fall Prevention

“The more I drink the more I have to use the toilet.” This is a comment that I am all too familiar with. While it sounds legitimate, your bladder will have concentrated urine and you’ll have the urge to pee more anyway if you don’t drink. There’s also a greater risk of developing a urinary tract infection (UTI), which could be a blog topic on its own. Stay tuned…

When most people think about fall prevention, they picture grab bars, sturdy shoes, or balance exercises. But one often-overlooked piece of the puzzle is what’s on your plate, and in your glass. Nutrition and hydration play a direct role in keeping your body strong, steady, and less likely to stumble.

Proper nutrition provides the fuel your muscles and bones need to support you. Diets rich in protein help maintain muscle mass, while calcium and vitamin D strengthen bones, reducing the risk of serious injury if a fall does occur. Low blood sugar from skipping meals can cause dizziness or weakness, making a sudden fall more likely. For older adults especially, regular, balanced meals aren’t just about overall health, they’re an essential part of staying upright and steady.

Hydration is just as critical. Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, confusion, and lightheadedness, all of which raise the chances of losing your balance. Medications or reduced thirst cues often mean older adults drink less water than their bodies actually need. Sipping water throughout the day, adding hydrating foods like fruit (melons are a great option) and low-sodium soup, and limiting dehydrating drinks like alcohol can go a long way toward keeping the body steady.

An important side note worth mentioning:💧Not everyone can drink unlimited water. Conditions like heart failure or kidney disease may require fluid limits. Always follow your doctor’s advice — safe hydration still helps reduce dizziness and fall risk.

In short, preventing falls isn’t just about your environment, it’s also about how you nourish yourself. Strong muscles, healthy bones, and a clear, alert mind all depend on good nutrition and hydration. Pairing these habits with other fall-prevention strategies can create a foundation for safety and independence at home and beyond.

A Room for Living, Not for Falling

A client once told me about tripping over the corner of her rug when she got up to answer the phone. It had been slipping around for weeks, but she never thought much of it — until that stumble left her with a sprained wrist and several frustrating weeks of recovery. What surprised her most wasn’t the pain. It was how something so ordinary and easy to ignore disrupted her independence.

The truth is, the living room is full of little trip-ups we don’t notice until they catch us. A rug that shifts under your feet. A coffee table leg that blends into the floor. A phone charger stretched across the room because there isn’t an outlet nearby. Even pets can become part of the problem — cats darting between your legs or dogs stretched across a walkway. Add dim lighting at night, and you’ve got a space that feels cozy but isn’t always safe.

The living room doesn’t need a full renovation to feel safer. A few small changes can prevent a fall that could mean weeks or months of recovery. Consider these practical adjustments:

• Secure your rugs with non-slip pads or rug tape so they stay flat. Even better, choose rugs with bold edges that are easier to see.

• Clear the pathways by using baskets or organizers for remotes, books, and magazines. A dedicated “drop zone” keeps clutter from ending up underfoot.

• Rearrange furniture so there’s an obvious, open route from the door to your favorite chair. Think about how you actually move through the room.

• Tame the cords with covers, clips, or wireless options to keep them from stretching across walkways. This is especially important near couches and recliners where charging devices is common.

• Brighten the room with stronger bulbs, extra lamps, or motion-sensor night lights. Good lighting is one of the simplest ways to cut your risk.

• Consider your pets by placing their beds in low-traffic areas, and choosing bed colors that stand out against the floor so you spot them quickly.

One extra trick is to add contrast. When everything in a room is the same tone, it’s easy to miss edges and corners. A colorful throw on a dark couch, or bright tape on a step edge, helps your eyes recognize boundaries more quickly.

A few thoughtful tweaks go a long way. With rugs anchored, cords tucked away, and lighting improved, the living room becomes what it should be: a place to rest and recharge, without the worry of falling.

“Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up.”

Did you see the video of Ruth, the geriatric elephant who fell over at the Milwaukee Zoo and couldn’t get up?

Most of us are familiar with a similar commercial about the lady who fell down and was unable to get up. This, unfortunately, is a reality that many of my clients have had — they were injured and/or too weak to get up after falling and only survived because a neighbor or family member checked on them. Ruth, too, was lucky enough to receive a little bit of help from a zoo employee driving a front-loader stuffed with hay.

Falling can be frightening, but being prepared can make all the difference. Whether it’s a simple stumble or something more serious, the key is making sure you can reach help quickly. Many people now use safety alert buttons—small wearable devices that connect you directly to trained responders at the press of a button or are alerted because of the sensor that detects a sudden change in position. Others rely on cell phones kept in a pocket or a smartwatch with built-in emergency features. These tools give peace of mind that if you fall, you won’t be left waiting and wondering.

The goal is to make it as easy as possible for someone to know you need assistance. Here are a few practical options (not all of which require technology):

• Wear a medical alert device with a safety alert button you can press anytime and has sensors that detect falls.

• Keep a cell phone in your pocket or within arm’s reach, even at home.

• Use a smartwatch with an SOS or fall-detection feature.

• Call out loudly or knock on the floor or wall to get a neighbor’s attention.

• Use nearby objects (like banging a cane or tapping something metal) to make noise.

• Set up daily check-ins with family, friends, or neighbors so someone notices quickly if you need help.

With a little planning and the right tools, a fall doesn’t have to mean being stuck. Safety alert buttons, smart devices, and backup plans can ensure help is always within reach—and that peace of mind is just as valuable as the protection itself.

Sit, Stay… Safe: Tips for Living with Pets

Dogs and cats bring joy, comfort, and companionship. For many older adults, a furry friend can ease loneliness, reduce stress, and even encourage daily activity. I know I always have time to offer some friendly scritches for any of my clients’ fuzzy companions!

But there’s a less cuddly truth: pets can also increase the risk of falls.

I have three cats and a small dog, so I know how the zoomies, the sunbeam stretch in a busy pathway, the weaving between legs, can unintentionally (or with my oldest cat, Joulean, maybe intentionally) create dangerous situations. The goal isn’t to choose between safety and companionship — it’s to find practical ways to have both.

• Underfoot companions: Cats often weave between legs, while small dogs linger near their owner’s feet.

• Sudden movement: Pets may likely will dart across a room or underfoot unexpectedly.

• Leashes and toys: A leash stretched taut or a stray chew toy can be as dangerous as a loose rug.

• Feeding and water stations: Bowls on the floor add tripping hazards, especially in dim lighting.

• Nighttime encounters: Pets that sleep in or near the bed may cause stumbles during late-night bathroom trips.

It’s important to balance the conversation. Pets aren’t just “risks” — they’re lifelines. Research has shown that pet ownership reduces feelings of loneliness and increases physical activity, especially walking with dogs. One study from the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute highlights how older adults with pets report better emotional well-being and stronger social connections.

The key is safety with pets, not safety without them.

Tips to Keep Pets — and Their People — Safe

1. Training Makes a Difference

Basic obedience (sit, stay, heel) helps reduce unpredictable movements, especially with dogs. For cats, discouraging underfoot weaving with gentle redirection (like tossing a toy) can help.

2. Manage Feeding Areas

Place bowls against a wall or in a corner, not in walkways. Consider raised feeders to reduce bending and make bowls more visible.

3. Lighting is Your Friend

Motion-sensor nightlights near pet beds, litter boxes, or feeding areas prevent surprises in the dark.

4. Leash Safety

When walking dogs, use a short, sturdy leash — not retractable leashes, which can tangle or pull suddenly. Keep one hand free if possible, and consider walking at quieter times to avoid distractions.

5. Toy Patrol

Scan for toys and chews just as you would for loose cords or clutter. A brightly colored toy basket can encourage keeping them off the floor. Consider using a long-handled reacher as a way to pick toys up if bending is challenging.

6. Pet Placement at Night

If pets sleep in the bedroom, set clear boundaries. A pet bed at the foot of the bed is safer than allowing pets to sprawl in walkways.

7. Adopt Senior Pets

Older dogs and cats are typically calmer, less likely to dart underfoot, and often already trained. For seniors who want companionship without the chaos of a young puppy or kitten, adopting a senior pet can be a safer and deeply rewarding option.

8. Footwear Counts

Supportive, closed-back shoes at home add stability — and reduce the risk of slips if you do accidentally step on a toy or tail.

One of my clients shared how her golden retriever had been her lifeline after her husband passed away. “He gave me a reason to get up and walk every morning,” she said. But after tripping on his toy bone, she worried she’d have to give him up. Instead, we reorganized her home: a dedicated feeding spot, a brighter hallway, and a nightly “toy check” routine. With just a few changes, she kept both her safety and her beloved companion.

See Your Step: When Failing Eyes Lead to Falling Feet

Mrs. R’s bathroom was beautiful. White tile, white walls, white tub — it was modern and chic and everything matched perfectly. But one morning, she misjudged the edge of the tub and stumbled hard, because she couldn’t tell where the floor ended and the step began. She caught herself, but the scare was enough.

Her balance wasn’t the problem. The problem was contrast. When everything blends together, our eyes struggle to send the right depth cues to our feet — and the risk of falling skyrockets.

Vision isn’t just about seeing clearly; it’s about orientation. Our eyes help us:

• Judge how far down the next stair is.

• Spot small trip hazards like cords or rugs.

• Detect changes in surface, like a rug to hardwood.

As we age, clarity often fades — cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration make details harder to see. But even without those conditions, environments that lack contrast (like Mrs. R’s beige-on-beige bathroom) confuse our eyes. The result: a higher chance of missteps.

Simple Fixes That Make a Big Difference

1. Add Contrast Tape. Bright, non-slip tape on the edge of stairs or steps makes depth easier to judge. A dark strip along a light tub edge or shower threshold works wonders.

2. Layer in Lighting. Shadows hide hazards and glare distracts gazes. Use bright, evenly distributed light to sharpen outlines. (See blog: Shedding Light on Safety)

3. Check Your Glasses. Bifocals and progressives distort depth, especially on stairs. Ask your eye doctor about single-vision glasses for walking.

4. Use Color Strategically. Dark mats on light floors, light towels against dark counters — help the eyes separate objects.

Oh, and Mrs. R? Now that we’ve added a simple strip of dark tape along her tub edge and putting down a contrasting bath mat, she feels more confident in her bathroom. “No more guessing where to step when I’m done showering!”

Falls aren’t always about weakness or clumsiness. Sometimes, it’s what our eyes can’t see that creates the risk. With small adjustments, like contrast tape, the path forward becomes clearer — literally.

The Steps to Stay Upright Start with Wearing the Right Shoes

When most people think of fall prevention, they picture grab bars, sturdy handrails, or brighter lighting. Rarely does anyone glance down at their feet. Yet footwear plays a surprisingly large role in keeping older adults steady and safe.

The wrong pair of shoes — or none at all — can turn an ordinary moment into a serious fall. And sometimes, the most dangerous culprits are the ones we assume are safest: slippers and socks.

The Slippery Truth About Slippers

Slippers are the go-to indoor shoe for many older adults. They’re comfortable, easy to slip on, and feel cozy around the house. Unfortunately, those simple slippers are designed for comfort, not safety.

• Loose fit = instability. Open-backed or oversized slippers can slide off mid-step, making a stumble more likely.

• Thin soles = poor grip. Many slippers have smooth bottoms that provide little traction on hardwood or tile floors.

• No support = more fatigue. Lack of arch and ankle support can worsen balance problems, especially when moving around for longer periods.

What Sucks About Socks

Unfortunately, wearing socks without shoes is even riskier. We’ve all known that kid — or been that kid — who smacked into a wall after slipping on a hardwood floor (in my case, it was a metal cabinet delivering a black eye, ouch!). But it’s not just children at risk. Smooth fabric against hardwood, tile, or linoleum is a recipe for slipping. Even socks with small “grippy dots” on the bottom wear out quickly and may not provide enough traction for confident walking.

Additionally, socks also provide no structural support. Without a firm sole, the foot and ankle muscles have to work harder, which can make balance less reliable.

In fact, a study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) found that older adults who were barefoot, wearing socks without shoes, or wearing slippers had a significantly increased risk of in-home falls compared with those wearing secure, supportive shoes.

What Good Footwear Looks Like

The good news: footwear fixes are simple and inexpensive. The right pair of shoes can make a dramatic difference in stability.

Look for:

• Closed backs: Shoes that stay firmly on the foot.

• Non-skid soles: Rubber or textured bottoms that grip surfaces.

• Low heels: Flat shoes provide the best stability.

• Support: Firm midsoles and cushioning for comfort during longer wear.

• Easy fasteners: Velcro or elastic laces that keep shoes snug without difficulty.

Everyday supportive shoes can double as “indoor shoes.” For those who don’t like the idea of wearing outdoor shoes inside, consider keeping one pair set aside just for indoor use.

A Real-Life Example

One of my clients swore by her fuzzy slippers. They made her feel secure, like she wasn’t “clomping around in sneakers” at home. But she had fallen twice in her kitchen — once when her slipper slipped sideways, and once when the sole didn’t grip on the linoleum. After we swapped them for supportive slip-resistant shoes she kept only for indoors, she was shocked at the difference: she said she felt “taller, stronger, like my feet are really under me.” Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference.

Falls don’t always come from big hazards like icy sidewalks or loose rugs. Sometimes, they’re hiding in plain sight — in the shoes we wear every day. Choosing the right footwear isn’t just about comfort; it’s a key part of aging safely and confidently at home.

A good pair of shoes may cost more than a pair of slippers, but the investment is small compared with the cost — physical, emotional, and financial — of a serious fall.

Shedding Light on Safety: Bright Ideas for a Fall-Free Home

When people think of fall prevention, they often imagine grab bars, walkers, or exercise routines. While all of these play important roles, one of the simplest — and most overlooked — ways to reduce fall risk is good lighting. Poor visibility makes it easy to miss a step, stumble over clutter, or misjudge distances. For older adults, whose vision may already be changing, the stakes are even higher. The right lighting can transform a home from a hidden hazard into a safer, more supportive environment.

Our eyes naturally change with age. The lenses become less clear, the pupils react more slowly to light, and peripheral vision narrows. These changes make it harder to adapt from light to dark, to see clearly in dim conditions, or to detect obstacles.

One of my clients, a retired teacher, told me she always left her hallway light off at night to “save energy.” After two near-misses on her way to the bathroom, she finally installed inexpensive motion-activated lights. The difference was immediate: she could walk confidently without fumbling for a switch in the dark.

Lighting is one of the most cost-effective fall prevention strategies because it addresses both the environment and the natural effects of aging. A well-lit home doesn’t just help prevent stumbles, it also reduces the anxiety that comes with moving around in the dark.

Key Areas Where Lighting Prevents Falls

Entryways and Outdoor Paths

Uneven walkways, steps, and porches can spell danger, especially at night. Bright outdoor lighting with motion sensors ensures that every trip to take out the trash or greet a visitor is safer. Pathway lights and stair lights provide extra guidance where shadows can hide hazards.

Hallways and Stairs

These transition spaces often get overlooked, but they’re common fall sites. Hallways should be evenly lit, with no dark stretches between rooms. Stairs need continuous lighting from top to bottom, with light switches at both ends. Even better, LED strip lights along stair edges provide definition and reduce missteps.

One gentleman I worked with loved doing crossword puzzles late into the night. His wife worried every time he headed upstairs in dim light with the newspaper in hand. After adding brighter stair lighting and a handrail, she said she finally stopped holding her breath with each trip.

Bathrooms and Bedrooms

Nighttime bathroom trips are one of the biggest fall triggers. A dark bedroom, paired with grogginess, makes accidents far more likely. Motion-activated night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways provide just enough glow to guide the way without disrupting sleep.

Kitchens and Living Rooms

Good task lighting makes daily activities safer. Under-cabinet lights in the kitchen reduce shadows on counters. Bright, evenly distributed lighting in living rooms helps prevent tripping over furniture, cords, or pets.

Choosing the Right Lighting

• Brightness (Lumens): Older adults often need twice as much light as younger people for the same visibility. Use brighter bulbs (at least 800 lumens for general spaces, more for task areas).

• Color Temperature: “Warm white” (2700–3000K) is comfortable for living spaces, while “cool white” (4000K+) works well for task areas.

• LED Advantage: LEDs are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and adjustable. Many also work with smart systems for voice or remote control.

• Avoid Glare: Too much brightness in one spot can be as harmful as not enough. Use lampshades, frosted bulbs, or diffusers to soften harsh light.

Practical, Low-Cost Fixes

• Add motion-sensor night lights in high-traffic areas.

• Install brighter bulbs in stairways, hallways, and entryways.

• Use stick-on LED lights inside closets or dark corners.

• Place lamps within easy reach of beds and chairs.

• Consider smart bulbs or plugs that can be voice-activated—helpful if mobility is limited.

Good lighting does more than prevent falls—it supports independence. When older adults feel confident moving through their homes, they’re more likely to stay active and engaged. That confidence can ease the fear of falling, which is itself a major risk factor.

The bottom line: Lighting isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about safety, confidence, and quality of life. A brighter home is a safer home.

Prescription Pitfalls: How Medications Can Increase Fall Risk

While medications can be life-saving, certain types, especially when prescribed to older adults, can unknowingly raise the risk of falls. Understanding these drugs and their effects can help individuals and caregivers better assess fall risk and seek safer alternatives.

Falls remain the leading cause of injury among adults aged 65 and older in the U.S. Every year, more than one in four older adults reports a fall. That makes fall prevention a critical health goal.

Certain medications, often termed Fall Risk-Increasing Drugs (FRIDs), can affect balance, cognition, blood pressure, or muscle control. Common categories include:

• Sedative-hypnotics (benzodiazepines and “Z-drugs”): Used for insomnia or anxiety (e.g., lorazepam, zolpidem), they cause drowsiness, impaired coordination, and confusion. In older adults, they sharply raise fall and hip fracture risk (Mayo Clinic).

• Antidepressants: Prescribed for depression and anxiety, some (like tricyclics and SSRIs) can cause dizziness, sedation, or blood pressure changes.

• Antipsychotics: Used for conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, they may cause dizziness or orthostatic hypotension.

• Antiepileptics (seizure medications): Drugs such as gabapentin can cause drowsiness and unsteadiness, raising fall risk.

• Muscle relaxants: Commonly prescribed for muscle spasms or back pain, they can impair coordination.

• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): Used for arthritis or pain relief, they may contribute to balance issues indirectly by affecting blood pressure.

• Anticholinergics: Found in medications for bladder issues, allergies, or motion sickness; they can cause confusion and blurred vision.

• Polypharmacy (taking many medications): The more drugs someone takes, the greater the fall risk—especially when five or more are involved (NCOA).

The Overlooked Factor: Medication Mismanagement

Even when medications are appropriate, how they are taken can make a big difference in fall risk. Mismanagement—whether from missed doses, double doses, or mixing drugs incorrectly—can heighten side effects and confusion.

Some common mismanagement issues include:

• Complex schedules: Many older adults take multiple prescriptions at different times of day. Missing or doubling up on a dose of blood pressure medication, for example, can cause dizziness or fainting.

• Mixing medications with alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol can amplify sedating effects of medications for sleep, anxiety, or pain, increasing unsteadiness.

• Poor labeling or vision problems: Difficulty reading labels or pill bottles may lead to accidental misuse.

• Outdated or duplicate prescriptions: Sometimes medications from different doctors overlap, or older prescriptions are never discontinued, creating unnecessary interactions.

• Lack of communication: Patients may not realize over-the-counter medications, supplements, or herbal remedies can interact with prescriptions in ways that increase fall risk.

The numbers tell the story: On average, adults 65+ take four or more prescription medications daily, and medication mismanagement is a leading contributor to preventable hospitalizations in older adults.

The good news is that mismanagement is preventable. Tools like weekly pill organizers, automatic pill dispensers, and medication review appointments with pharmacists can significantly reduce the risks.

Here are a few suggestions for what you can do:

• Annual medication reviews with a healthcare provider are vital to assess necessity, dosages, and safer alternatives.

• Simplify routines: Using blister packs or reminder apps can reduce errors.

• Add technology: I know, I know, older people and technology are not always a great mix, but there are great tools available that can make it easier to manage medicines — for example, caps that show when a pill bottle was last opened.

• Address modifiable risk factors: Improve home safety, ensure good lighting and footwear, and add strength and balance exercises to daily life.

Medications serve vital roles—from managing pain, mood, seizures, and bladder control, to promoting sleep. Yet, they can inadvertently impair balance, cognition, or blood pressure—especially in older adults—boosting the chance of falls. When combined with medication mismanagement, the risks rise even higher.

With more than 37.3 million falls that are severe enough to require medical attention occur each year globally, understanding both the effects of medications and how they’re taken is critical for safety and independence. By staying informed, asking the right questions, and managing prescriptions carefully, older adults and caregivers can take meaningful steps toward fall prevention.

This article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or treatment.

The Hidden Costs of a Fall: Beyond the ER

When a loved one falls, the first thought is usually, “Are they hurt?” If the answer is no, there’s a sigh of relief. If the answer is yes, the focus turns to X-rays, casts, surgeries, and hospital stays. During Fall Prevention Awareness Month, it’s important to talk about the ripple effects that aren’t as obvious.

A fall isn’t just a medical event — it can change daily life in ways that families don’t expect.

Falls send 3 million older adults to the ER each year. In a large cohort analyzed over a six-year period, the average total cost of a fall was more than $62,000! And the expenses don’t stop when someone leaves the hospital.

Many older adults need weeks or months of rehabilitation. Some require new medications, mobility aids, or in-home health services. A single fall can mark the point when an older adult moves from being mostly independent to needing ongoing medical support.

I’ve seen older adults bounce back physically from a fall — but the fear it leaves behind is harder to heal. Suddenly, stairs look dangerous. A simple walk to get the mail feels risky. That fear of falling again often leads to moving less, which only makes balance and strength decline.

Families feel it too. Adult children may find themselves checking in more often, rearranging work schedules, or quietly worrying about “the next fall.” The emotional weight can strain relationships in subtle ways.

Beyond the medical and emotional tolls, the costs for falls among older adults is projected to increase to over $101 billion by 2030. But those numbers only capture medical bills; the hidden financial toll often includes:

• Missed work for family caregivers

• Transportation or in-home care during recovery

• The sudden need for higher levels of care, like assisted living or rehab stays

These are costs that blindside families who thought of a fall as a one-time event.

Because awareness is power. These hidden costs don’t have to be inevitable. By making small changes — improving home safety, encouraging balance and strength exercises, reviewing medications — families can prevent the accident that sets all of these ripple effects in motion.

Fall prevention isn’t just about avoiding injuries. It’s about protecting independence, peace of mind, and financial stability.

Shower Mats and Fall Prevention: What Older Adults Should Know

For older adults, a fall in the bathroom can have serious consequences. Slick shower floors are one of the leading causes of slips at home, and even a minor fall can lead to lasting injury or loss of independence. That’s why many people turn to shower mats as a simple way to add stability and peace of mind.

But here’s the problem: not all shower mats actually reduce risk. Some mats stay firmly in place, drain well, and provide steady footing. Others can shift, curl at the edges, or hold on to moisture—turning what should be a safety tool into a hidden hazard.

When aging in place, the small details matter. So, what mat do you choose? One with suction cups might seem like a great choice, however, I find that those often slide around on a textured or non-flat floor (see attached video) or on a soapy or mildew-covered floor. Choosing the wrong kind of mat may increase the risk of slipping instead of preventing it.

Here’s what to look for in a safe shower mat, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make a smart choice that supports both comfort and independence at home.

9 Things to Look for in a Safe Shower Mat

1. Non-Slip Grip – Textured backing to keep the mat from shifting.

2. Good Drainage – Holes, slats, or channels that let water flow through and prevent pooling.

3. Quick-Drying Material – Rubber, silicone, or antimicrobial finishes that resist mold and mildew.

4. Low Profile & Flat Edges – Prevents tripping and keeps the mat flush with the shower floor.

5. Comfort Underfoot – Slight cushioning or texture for steady footing without being bulky.

6. Size & Coverage – A mat that fits your shower or tub space without leaving slick gaps.

7. Easy to Clean – Lightweight enough to lift, rinse, and wash regularly to maintain hygiene.

8. Durability – Materials that won’t crack, curl, or lose grip after a few months of use.

9. Contrasting Colors – Pick a color that helps it stand out against the shower/tub floor and wall for visual contrast.

What to Avoid in a Shower Mat

• Fabric-Topped Mats – They soak up water, take forever to dry, and grow mold quickly.

• Weak or Worn Suction Cups – If the mat doesn’t stay put, it becomes a slipping hazard.

• Mats That Curl or Bunch – Raised edges or folds can trip you as easily as a loose rug.

• Overly Thick or Bulky Mats – These can feel unstable underfoot and be hard to clean.

• Permanent Adhesives – Anything that sticks down permanently can trap bacteria and make cleaning difficult.

The right shower mat may seem like a simple purchase, but for older adults, it can be an important component of staying safe and independent at home. By choosing a mat that grips well, dries quickly, and is easy to clean, you’re not just adding comfort—you’re reducing the risk of falls in one of the most hazardous rooms in the house. A little attention to detail now can go a long way toward peace of mind in the future.

Why Fall Prevention Matters: Protecting Health, Independence, and Quality of Life

It’s September and it’s time to talk about falls. Not the kind that brings pumpkin spiced everything, puffer vests, and changing leaves, but the accidents that for older adults can be life-changing events. September is Fall Prevention Awareness Month, and it’s a reminder we all need to raise awareness and show families, caregivers, and communities that falls are not inevitable and can be avoided or even prevented.

Fall Prevention Month highlights the staggering reach of this issue:

• One in four adults aged 65 and older falls each year. Falling once doubles the chance of falling again.

• Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in older adults.

• Each year, falls send about 3 million older adults to the emergency department and lead to more than 1 million hospitalizations.

This isn’t just a health statistic; it’s a call to action.

One of the key messages of Fall Prevention Awareness Month is that falls affect more than bones and tissue. They affect confidence, independence, and quality of life. I’ve seen people recover physically but still live with a fear of falling again. That fear can shrink worlds: I’ve seen patients avoiding walks, skipping stairs, saying no to social outings.

Families often feel the shift, too. Sometimes a single fall pushes adult children into caregiving roles long before they expected it or makes them question whether their loved ones can remain independent.

We also must acknowledge the hidden costs. Falls among older adults cost the U.S. about $80 billion every year. These aren’t abstract numbers — they represent families facing hospital bills, rehabilitation, and the need for long-term support.

There IS good news… I promise

The best part of Fall Prevention Month is its message of hope: falls are avoidable. Small, practical steps make a big difference:

• Home safety changes like grab bars, brighter lighting, and removing clutter.

• Balance and strength exercises to build confidence.

• Medication reviews to reduce dizziness or drowsiness.

• Regular vision and hearing checks.

Each action helps keep seniors safer and more independent at home.

Fall Prevention Awareness Month isn’t about scaring people. It’s about shining a light on something we can change. Falls don’t have to be part of aging. They’re preventable, and prevention means protecting independence, dignity, and quality of life.

All month long, I’ll be sharing tips, checklists, and stories to help families make homes safer and seniors more confident. Because staying upright isn’t just about safety — it’s about living well.