If you’re 65 or older (or have a parent in that bracket), it’s important to recognize that falls are the leading cause of both fatal injuries in that age group as well as non-fatal, trauma-related hospital admissions.

That toe that hooks the edge of a carpet, missed tread on the stairway, or light-headedness rising from the toilet all can precipitate a visit to the ER, or worse. And as the population of older Americans climbs, so too do the number of these accidents.

The statistics are sobering. According to the CDC:

• One out of every three seniors falls each year
• Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in an emergency room for a fall
• Every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall

And these numbers are an underestimate, since many falls are not reported.

Bit here’s what’s missing in all these numbers: most of these falls are entirely preventable.

Focusing on the Home

Most fall-prevention advice focuses on issues like medications, eye health, muscular strength, and ailments such as osteoporosis and arthritis. All good advice, of course, but it overlooks something of particular importance: the in-home setting in which so many (55%+) of these falls take place (a further 23% take place just outside the home).

When an older individual takes a tumble, it sets in motion a chain of events that can be devastating not just to the person who falls, but also their kids, grandkids, friends, and employers (if they’re still working).

For starters, there’s the aforementioned statistics on deaths and hospital admissions. But equally important is the fact 40% of individuals who fall will never return to independent living: that fall literally serves as an eviction notice.

Some of the DIY things an elderly homeowner (or adult child of said homeowner) can take to accident-proof the home:

• Remove ALL potential tripping hazards. Throw rugs, power cords, extended furniture or accessory legs must be removed.
• Install grab bars beside toilets and in showers/baths.
• Install a second parallel railing on stairs and in hallways for added stability options.
• Add lighting throughout the house to compensate for aging eyesight.
• Remove step-in tubs and shower curbs (replace with walk-in showers).
• Add voice automation and smart tech for lights, faucets, and other accessories.

Companies likes ours also offer free, expert in-home consultations to help you identify risks and come up with plans for dramatically reducing the risk of falls.

Remember, proactive steps today can eliminate the reactive nightmare you and your family will experience after a fall.