More than half of all fall injuries among older people occur inside the home, and an additional one out of four happen outside near the home.

Why fall prevention is important

Falls are a major threat to the health and independence of older adults, people aged 65 and older. Each year nearly one-third of older adults experience a fall. Falls can be devastating. About one out of ten falls among older adults result in a serious injury, such as a hip fracture or head injury, that requires hospitalization. In addition to the physical and emotional pain, many people need to spend at least a year recovering in a long-term care facility. Some never return to their homes. Falls can be costly and most importantly, deadly.

Falls are preventable.

Many older adults, as well as their family members and caregivers, are unaware of factors or behaviors that put them at risk of falling, and are also unaware of what actions they can take to reduce their risk. For a comprehensive list with detailed recommendations for a variety of home improvements check out the 2014 AARP-Home-Fit-Guide.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission also provides a Home Safety Checklist that can dramatically increase safety and reduce falls.