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Fall Prevention for Seniors
- Julia Hebard
- Sep 13
- 3 min read
Beyond Grab Bars and Handrails
Practical, thoughtful tips to keep your loved one on steady feet.
When we think of fall prevention, grab bars in the bathroom and sturdy handrails along stairs usually come to mind—and for good reason. But the truth is, avoiding falls takes more than hardware. It requires a whole-person approach that considers daily routines, personal health, and the way a home feels and functions.
If you're caring for an aging loved one—or aging yourself—here are some lesser-known but highly effective strategies that go above and beyond traditional fixes:
1. Strengthen the Mind-Body Connection
Falls often happen because of a split-second delay between thinking and reacting.
Tai Chi or gentle yoga improves balance, flexibility, and coordination.
Mindfulness and breathing exercises help seniors stay more present and confident in their movements.
Simple brain games (even crossword puzzles or matching games) improve cognition, which helps with hazard awareness.
2. Rethink Footwear—Even Indoors
Slippers may be cozy, but they’re often a fall risk.
Opt for non-slip socks with grips or supportive indoor shoes. We like these by Sturdey.
Avoid backless slippers or anything that doesn’t hug the foot securely.
Make shoe-tying easier with elastic no-tie laces or Velcro options. Here are a few options we like.
Kizik Non-slip Shoes
3. Take a “Home Flow” Walk-Through
It’s not just about removing tripping hazards—it's about rethinking how your loved one moves through their space.
Is the coffee maker too far from the table where they drink it?
Is the laundry room on a different floor?
Consider creating “pause stations” with a chair or sturdy surface for balance, especially in longer hallways.
4. Make Lighting Smart (Literally!)
Low light equals high risk. But today’s technology makes it easier than ever to stay safe.
Motion-activated night lights can line the hallway to the bathroom. Try this one from L LOHAS
L LOHAS LED Motion Sensor Night Light
Smart bulbs can be voice-controlled via Alexa or Google—no fumbling for switches.
Warm LED strips: Use them under cabinets and along baseboards for gentle, glare-free lighting.
5. Nourish Balance From the Inside Out
Yes—what we eat can influence how we stand.
Hydration is critical. Dehydration causes dizziness and confusion.
Vitamin D and calcium support bone health and reduce the risk of serious injury if a fall does happen.
Monitor medications that may cause lightheadedness; talk to a healthcare provider if you notice any changes after starting a new prescription.
6. Furniture That Works With You
Not all chairs are created equal.
Swap soft, low sofas for firm, high-seat chairs with arms to assist with standing.
Add non-skid pads to furniture legs and rugs.
Use standing desks or lift recliners as tools—not luxuries—to support mobility.
7. Invite a Second Set of Eyes
We all get used to our homes and routines, which can make it easy to miss potential hazards.
A professional fall risk assessment from a nurse or occupational therapist can highlight hidden dangers.
Family walk-throughs are also valuable—bring in a fresh set of eyes and a curious mindset.
Nursing Note:
Falls are the #1 cause of injury-related hospitalizations in older adults—and they’re often preventable. Look at fall prevention as an ongoing lifestyle adjustment, not a one-time fix. The more proactive we are, the more confident and independent our loved ones can be.
Need help evaluating your loved one’s risk or making safe changes at home? At Blue Skies Nursing, our experienced nurses and therapists are here to walk alongside you—literally and figuratively.
Let’s keep aging steady and strong.
Together... we've got this!
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