Fall Prevention & Home Safety: Simple Ways to Reduce Your Risk at Home

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults and can have a significant impact on health, independence, and quality of life.

The good news is that many falls can be prevented.

Simple changes around the home, awareness of potential hazards, and support from your healthcare team can all help reduce fall risk and create a safer environment for you or someone you love.

Who is at risk for falls?

Anyone can experience a fall, but certain changes in health, mobility, or the home environment can increase the risk.

Fall risk may be higher for someone experiencing:

• difficulty walking or maintaining balance
• muscle weakness
• vision changes
• medication side effects
• a recent illness or hospitalization
• previous falls
• cluttered or poorly lit living spaces

Recognizing these risks early can make it easier to take steps that help prevent an injury.

Medications can affect your balance

Some medications may increase the risk of falling by causing:

• dizziness
• drowsiness
• changes in blood pressure
• unsteadiness

Never stop taking a medication without speaking with your healthcare provider.

If you notice side effects or begin feeling more unsteady than usual, let your Benchmark care team know.

Simple ways to prevent falls

A few everyday precautions can make a meaningful difference.

Consider these simple safety habits:

• wear supportive, non-slip shoes
• use your walker or cane as recommended
• rise slowly from a chair or bed
• keep walkways free of clutter
• make sure your home has adequate lighting
• keep frequently used items within easy reach
• stay active with exercises recommended by your healthcare team

Small changes can help prevent falls while supporting independence at home.

What to do if you fall

Even if you do not think you are injured, it is important to tell someone when a fall occurs.

Notify your Benchmark team if you:

• experience a fall
• feel more unsteady than usual
• notice changes in your balance
• have concerns about walking safely at home

A fall or change in balance can be an important sign that your care plan or home environment needs to be reviewed.

A home safety checklist

Taking a walk through your home can help identify hazards that may increase fall risk.

Living areas

• Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
• Keep electrical cords away from walkways.
• Arrange furniture so there are clear walking paths.

Bathroom

• Install grab bars near the toilet and shower.
• Use non-slip mats in the bathtub or shower.
• Consider using a shower chair if recommended.

Bedroom

• Keep a lamp within easy reach of the bed.
• Make sure there is a clear path to the bathroom.
• Avoid leaving items on the floor.

Stairs

• Use handrails whenever possible.
• Keep stairs well lit.
• Remove objects from steps.

How Benchmark Home Health can help

Fall prevention is not just about being more careful. It can also involve understanding changes in strength, balance, medications, and the home environment.

Benchmark Home Health helps patients remain safe and independent at home by:

• assessing fall risk
• recommending home safety improvements
• reviewing medications for potential fall risks
• providing strength and balance training through therapy services
• educating patients and caregivers about fall prevention strategies

Preventing falls is a team effort

Through education, home safety assessments, and personalized care, Benchmark Home Health works alongside patients and caregivers to help reduce the risk of injury while supporting independence at home.

If you or someone you love is experiencing changes in balance, mobility, or safety at home, our team is here to help.

Call Benchmark Home Health at 936-274-3787 to learn more.

The care you deserve.

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