Preventing Falls at Home: A Guide for Families

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury and hospitalization for older adults — and one of the most preventable, with the right precautions and clinical support. A licensed nurse can assess fall risk in ways a family member often can’t. Here’s what families should know about reducing fall risk at home.

Common Fall Risk Factors

• Muscle weakness or balance issues, especially after illness or surgery
• Certain medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness
• Poor lighting, loose rugs, or clutter in walkways
• Vision changes that make depth perception less reliable
• Getting up too quickly from sitting or lying down

Home Safety Changes That Help

• Remove loose rugs and cords from walking paths
• Install grab bars in bathrooms, especially near the toilet and in the shower
• Improve lighting, particularly on stairs and in hallways used at night
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or climbing
• Consider a medical alert system for times no one else is home

Signs Your Loved One May Be at Higher Risk

• A recent fall, even a minor one
• Noticeable unsteadiness getting up from a chair or bed
• Holding onto furniture while walking around the house
• A recent hospital stay or new medication
• Avoiding stairs or certain areas of the home

How Nursing Support Can Help

A licensed nurse visiting regularly can assess fall risk factors specific to your loved one’s home and routine, review medications for dizziness-causing side effects, and provide the clinical judgment that often makes the difference between a close call and a serious fall. This is a routine part of RN wellness visits.