Health and care
How to prevent falls in older adults at home
Updated October 15, 2026 · Reviewed against official sources
Many families think falling is "just part of getting old." It doesn't have to be. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one in four older adults fall each year, but fewer than half tell their doctor. And falling once doubles the chances of falling again. Sometimes Mom doesn't say anything because she doesn't want to worry her children or because she's afraid of losing her independence; that's why it's a good idea to ask lovingly and without scolding.
The consequences can be serious. The CDC estimates that each year there are about 4.5 million emergency room visits for falls among older adults, and that nearly 319,000 older adults are hospitalized for hip fractures. Falls are also the most common cause of traumatic brain injury in this age group.
To help prevent them, the CDC created the STEADI initiative, for health care providers and families. Here are its main tips, explained simply.
1. Talk with the doctor
Ask your loved one's doctor to check their fall risk. It's a quick screening that many doctors do at a routine visit. Tell the doctor if they've fallen, almost fallen, feel unsteady when walking, or are afraid of falling. Also ask:
- whether they should be tested for osteoporosis (weak bones) and whether they need treatment;
- whether taking vitamin D is a good idea for them.
Don't start any supplements without checking with the doctor.
2. Review all medicines
Some medicines cause dizziness or sleepiness and raise the risk of falling. Bring all medicines to the appointment, including over-the-counter ones, vitamins, and natural remedies or teas. Ask the doctor or pharmacist to review them all together. Never stop taking a medicine without talking to the doctor first.
3. Strength and balance exercises
Strong legs and good balance are great protection. The CDC mentions tai chi as an example. Many community centers and Area Agencies on Aging offer free or low-cost classes; you can find them by calling the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time (you can ask for Spanish when you call). Adult day centers also often include adapted physical activity. Before starting an exercise program, check with the doctor, especially if your loved one has heart or joint problems.
4. Get an eye exam every year
Take your loved one to the eye doctor at least once a year and update their glasses when needed. If they wear bifocals or progressive lenses, the CDC suggests considering a pair of glasses with only their distance prescription for walking outside, because bifocals can change depth perception.
5. A safer home, room by room
STEADI's Check for Safety checklist goes through the home room by room. The essentials:
Floors and hallways
- Remove loose rugs, cords, shoes, and anything else in the way.
- Leave clear paths between pieces of furniture.
Stairs
- Sturdy handrails on both sides.
- Good lighting at the top and bottom, with a light switch at each end.
- Steps with nothing left on them and no loose edges.
Kitchen
- Keep the things used most at waist height, so no one has to climb on chairs.
- If a step stool is needed, make sure it's sturdy and has a handle to hold.
Bathroom
- Grab bars inside the shower or tub, next to the tub, and next to the toilet.
- A non-slip mat on the shower floor.
Bedroom
- A lamp that can be turned on from the bed.
- Night-lights along the way to the bathroom.
In homes where several generations live together, the grandkids' toys or extra furniture can become obstacles. It's worth talking about as a family, without blaming anyone. For bigger changes, read our article on how to adapt the home.
Have a plan in case of a fall
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) recommends always having a way to call for help:
- a charged cell phone within reach;
- a medical alert button worn around the neck or wrist, or a smartwatch that can detect falls and call for help;
- daily contact with a family member, friend, or neighbor.
According to the NIA, Medicare doesn't pay for medical alert systems, although Medicaid or other programs sometimes do; ask your local Area Agency on Aging. Remember that the device only works if your loved one is wearing it and the battery is charged, and that it doesn't replace calls and visits from family.
Practice with your loved one what to do if they fall: stay still for a few moments, take deep breaths, check for injuries before trying to get up, and if something hurts or they can't get up alone, call for help or call 911.
When it's urgent
Call 911 if your loved one:
- hit their head, especially if they take blood thinners (anticoagulants);
- can't get up or can't put weight on a leg;
- has severe pain, bleeding, or confusion, or passed out.
Even if it seems like "nothing happened," let the doctor know after any fall. It can be a sign of a new health problem or a side effect of a medicine.
Frequently asked questions
Why doesn't my mom tell me when she falls?
It's very common. Many older adults are afraid that the family will make decisions for them or that they'll have to leave their home. Talking about it as a plan to help her stay independent usually opens up the conversation better.
Do a walker or a cane help?
They can help a lot, but they need to be the right size and used correctly. Ask the doctor to recommend which one is right; a physical therapist can adjust it and teach your loved one how to use it.
What should I do after a hospital stay for a fall?
The days after discharge are a delicate time. Read our guide on what to do after hospital discharge and ask about physical therapy or a home visit from a therapist.
When should I think about more help?
If falls keep happening or your loved one has a hard time bathing or moving around alone, review the signs that they can no longer live alone and consider help at home. Our guide to home care for older adults explains the options.
This information is general and doesn't replace a visit with a doctor. Talk with your loved one's doctor about their situation.
Sources
- CDC, Older Adult Falls Data / Facts About Falls: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/index.html (accessed October 15, 2026)
- CDC, Preventing Falls: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/prevention/index.html (accessed October 15, 2026)
- CDC STEADI, Check for Safety: A Home Fall Prevention Checklist for Older Adults: https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/59197 (accessed October 15, 2026)
- National Institute on Aging, Falls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/falls-and-fractures-older-adults-causes-and-prevention (accessed October 15, 2026)
- National Institute on Aging, Preventing Falls at Home: Room by Room: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/preventing-falls-home-room-room (accessed October 15, 2026)
- National Institute on Aging, Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/aging-place-growing-older-home (accessed October 15, 2026)
- ACL, Find Help (Eldercare Locator): https://acl.gov/HousingandServices/FindHelp (accessed October 15, 2026)
This is general information, not medical, legal or financial advice. Rules vary by state and by year: confirm with the official agency that applies to you.
Keep reading
Home modifications for seniors: bathroom, stairs, and lighting
How to adapt your home when Mom or Dad lives with you: bathroom grab bars, handrails, good lighting, and safe floors, based on the CDC's safety checklist.
Signs an elderly parent can no longer live alone
Food going bad, unpaid bills, bruises with no explanation: ten signs that your mom or dad needs more help at home, and what to do about it.
Home care
A caregiver from an agency or hired by your family, Medicare home health and Medicaid (IHSS, STAR+PLUS): typical costs and your duties as an employer.
Hospital discharge
What to do when an older adult is discharged from the hospital: inpatient vs. observation, Medicare's 3-day rule, how to appeal and a 48-hour checklist.
