Each September, we recognize Fall Prevention Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness about the risks of falls among older adults and the steps families, caregivers, and communities can take to keep seniors safe. Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries in people aged 65 and older. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four older adults fall each year, and once a senior experiences one fall, the likelihood of future falls increases significantly.

While the statistics are sobering, the positive news is this: most falls are preventable. By taking proactive steps, families can create safer home environments, support their loved ones’ mobility, and ensure that aging adults maintain independence and dignity. At ComForCare Scottsdale, we see every day how small changes can make a big difference.

Below, we share seven practical ways to prevent falls at home, along with additional tips and insights for families and caregivers.

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Why Fall Prevention Matters

Falls can have serious consequences for seniors — physically, emotionally, and socially. Beyond injuries like fractures or head trauma, a fall can also create fear of falling again, which often leads seniors to limit their activity. This reduced mobility can result in muscle weakness, social isolation, and a lower quality of life.

Families often don’t realize that something as simple as a poorly lit hallway, an untied shoelace, or a medication side effect can trigger a fall. That’s why awareness and prevention are so important — and why September is a perfect time to take stock of your loved one’s safety at home.

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1. Clear Pathways and Remove Hazards

The first and most essential step is to create an environment free of tripping hazards. Seniors need open, uncluttered spaces to move confidently.

Practical tips:

• Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip pads.
• Tape down electrical cords along the wall instead of across walkways.
• Rearrange furniture so that hallways and rooms have wide, clear paths.
• Store frequently used items (remote controls, reading glasses, phones) in easily accessible places so seniors don’t need to reach or climb.

Think of it this way: every object on the floor is a potential obstacle. A fall can happen in seconds — but removing those hazards can prevent it altogether.

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2. Improve Lighting Throughout the Home

Many falls occur simply because a senior cannot see the hazard in front of them. Good lighting is one of the simplest yet most effective fall prevention strategies.

Practical tips:

• Install brighter light bulbs in commonly used rooms.
• Place night lights in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms to make nighttime trips safer.
• Use motion-sensor lights that turn on automatically.
• Ensure stairways are well-lit from top to bottom.

Good lighting doesn’t just prevent falls — it helps seniors feel confident and reduces anxiety when moving around, especially at night.

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3. Supportive Footwear

Shoes and slippers may not seem like a big deal, but they play a crucial role in fall prevention. Many seniors wear socks, slippers, or shoes with little traction, which can increase the risk of slipping.

Practical tips:

• Encourage seniors to wear non-slip, supportive shoes indoors and outdoors.
• Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or shoes with slick soles.
• Make sure shoes fit properly and provide good ankle support.

Something as simple as switching to sturdy shoes can transform how safely a loved one moves throughout the day.

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4. Add Safety Equipment and Home Modifications

The bathroom, stairs, and entryways are the most common places for falls. Installing safety equipment provides support and peace of mind.

Practical tips:

• Add grab bars near the toilet and inside/outside the shower.
• Place non-slip mats inside the bathtub or shower.
• Install handrails on both sides of stairways.
• Consider a shower chair or handheld shower head for easier bathing.
• For homes with steps, consider adding a ramp or stair lift for safer mobility.

Small modifications can make a home much safer without sacrificing comfort.

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5. Stay Physically Active

One of the best defenses against falls is strength and balance. When seniors exercise regularly, they maintain muscle tone, flexibility, and coordination — all of which help prevent falls.

Practical tips:

• Walking, gentle yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics are excellent for balance.
• Chair exercises are a safe option for those with limited mobility.
• Stretching daily can reduce stiffness and improve movement.
• Ask a doctor or physical therapist for personalized exercise recommendations.

Exercise not only reduces fall risk — it also improves mood, confidence, and overall health.

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6. Manage Medications

Medications can sometimes have side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, or changes in blood pressure. These effects can significantly increase fall risk.

Practical tips:

• Review medications with a doctor or pharmacist at least once a year.
• Ask whether certain prescriptions or combinations could cause balance issues.
• Keep medications organized with pillboxes to prevent errors.
• Encourage seniors to report dizziness, lightheadedness, or changes in alertness right away.

Medication management is often overlooked in fall prevention, but it can be one of the most important steps.

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7. Regular Vision and Hearing Checks

Good vision and hearing are critical for maintaining balance and awareness. When seniors can’t see or hear hazards clearly, the risk of falling increases.

Practical tips:

• Schedule annual eye exams and hearing checks.
• Keep glasses and hearing aids clean and up-to-date.
• Add contrast to stairs and steps (such as brightly colored tape on edges) to make them easier to see.

Clear vision and hearing don’t just reduce fall risk — they also promote independence and confidence.

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The Emotional Side of Fall Prevention

It’s important to acknowledge that many seniors resist changes in their home because they feel it threatens their independence. Families may hear statements like: “I don’t need grab bars,” or “I don’t want to exercise.”

Approach these conversations with empathy and collaboration. Focus on how these changes can help your loved one continue living the life they enjoy. Instead of framing prevention as “limiting,” frame it as empowering.

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How ComForCare Can Help

At ComForCare, we understand that fall prevention is not just about safety — it’s about preserving dignity, independence, and quality of life. Our trained caregivers can:

• Conduct home safety assessments to identify fall risks.
• Assist with mobility, walking, and safe transfers.
• Encourage seniors to stay active with guided exercise and movement.
• Provide medication reminders to reduce risks associated with side effects.
• Offer companionship and reassurance, helping seniors feel confident at home.

Every step we take with families is guided by compassion and expertise. By working together, we can help seniors stay safe, comfortable, and connected in the place they love most — their home.

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Take Action This Fall Prevention Awareness Month

September is the perfect time to take a closer look at your loved one’s environment and health. Simple changes today can prevent devastating falls tomorrow.

💙 If you’re concerned about your loved one’s safety at home, contact ComForCare today to learn more about our fall prevention services and personalized care plans.

What Actions Should I Take Next?

If you or your loved one have been advised to consider either Palliative or Hospice care, it is important to understand the options available to you. ComForCare Home Care Scottsdale/Phoenix is also affiliated with Vital Palliative Care (www.vitalpalliative.com) and Royal Hospice Care (www.royalhospice.com/scottsdale).  This enables us to provide a Continuum of Care to support family and patient’s needs.  

There are many companies to choose from, but it is critically important to find a company that is ethical and truly puts quality patient care at the forefront.  Hospice Fraud is a real thing so make sure you do not feel pressured and understand all the benefits you and/or your loved one is elidable to receive.

If you’re considering companionship or caregiving for a loved one, reach out to our team to learn more about your options. We’re here to support you during this challenging time as we believe in personalized care plans and a concierge approach to patient care. 

Please call or email us at (480) 998-0668 or [email protected] to see what other patients’ families say about our services as we are very proud of our 5 star google reviews.  We will provide insight over phone from our Healthcare Advisor or will plan a time that works for you to meet with the patient and their family.  We are here for you!

You can also see videos of the Hospice process and meet our team on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@royalhospice.

Our company is a proud member of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), supporting ethical, high-quality end-of-life care.

Our company is ACHC Accredited, an honor granted by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), which recognizes organizations that exceed care standards. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) only grants its coveted deeming authority designation to select national accreditation organizations that consistently exceed expectations. 

Whether your loved one needs assistance only a few hours a week or around-the-clock, our team is happy to help! Call (480) 998-0668 to learn more about the transition care services offered through ComForCare Home Care (Scottsdale, AZ).