Health Library
Shine a light on fall prevention
Falling is especially dangerous for older adults, who may be more likely to break a bone. Making sure your home has good lighting is one of the steps you can take to avoid a tumble.
Here are some places around your home where you might want to add new overhead lights or install brighter bulbs.
WHERE GOOD LIGHTING MAY HELP
- Top and bottom of stairways.
- Each end of hallways.
- Bedrooms.
- Bathrooms (add night-lights).
Bonus tip: Keep a flashlight with fresh batteries by your bed in case the power goes out and you need to get up at night.
Sources: National Council on Aging; National Institute on Aging
Learn how balance exercises can also help keep you steady on your feet and less likely to fall.
Reviewed 5/4/2023
Sources
American Occupational Therapy Association. "Falls Prevention and Home Modification." https://www.aota.org/-/media/Corporate/Files/Practice/Aging/Resources/Focus-On-Falls-Prevention-Home-Mod-Booklet.pdf.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "Keep on Your Feet." https://www.cdc.gov/injury/features/older-adult-falls/index.html.
National Council on Aging. "6 Fall Prevention Steps to Help Your Older Loved Ones." https://www.ncoa.org/article/6-falls-prevention-steps-to-help-your-older-loved-ones.
National Institute on Aging: "Preventing Falls at Home: Room by Room." https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/preventing-falls-home-room-room.
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Individuals should always consult with their healthcare providers regarding medical care or treatment, as recommendations, services or resources are not a substitute for the advice or recommendation of an individual's physician or healthcare provider. Services or treatment options may not be covered under an individual's particular health plan.
