A fall can change everything — but falling is not an unavoidable part of getting older. Most falls are preventable, and the steps that work are simple and free. Here's what the CDC and the National Institute on Aging recommend, from balance exercises to the fixes that make every room safer.
More than one in four adults age 65 and older falls each year, and falls are the leading cause of injury-related death in that age group, according to the CDC. But here's the part that matters: falling is not an inevitable part of aging. A handful of proven steps meaningfully lower the risk — and most cost nothing.
Per the CDC: about 37% of people who fall report an injury needing medical treatment, nearly 319,000 older adults are hospitalized for hip fractures each year, and falling once roughly doubles your chances of falling again. The flip side — preventing that first fall pays off twice.
The National Institute on Aging boils it down to six tips:
Staying active is the most powerful single step. The NIA notes that activities like tai chi, yoga, and Pilates improve balance and muscle strength, and simple moves done at home build the leg strength that keeps you upright. A few examples often recommended for older adults:
Before starting a new exercise routine, talk with your doctor or a physical therapist — especially if you've fallen before, feel unsteady, or have a heart or joint condition. They can point you to a proven program. Tai chi in particular has strong evidence for reducing falls, and many senior centers and YMCAs offer free or low-cost classes. This page is general information, not medical advice.
Our pick
The bathroom is where many falls happen — wet, hard surfaces and low toilets. Sturdy grab bars mounted by the toilet and inside and outside the tub, a non-slip bath mat, and a raised toilet seat or shower chair are inexpensive and make a real difference. Choose grab bars rated to bear full body weight and have them anchored into studs.
Shop grab bars on Amazon →Simple, well-reviewed safety aids we'd install for our own family.The NIA's room-by-room advice comes down to removing hazards and adding support:
Three quieter risk factors the CDC flags are worth a check-up:
Our pick
For someone who lives alone, a medical alert device — a wearable button or fall-detecting pendant linked to a 24/7 response center — means help is one press away if a fall does happen. Look for automatic fall detection and a U.S.-based monitoring center.
We're sourcing a vetted provider and will only recommend one we trust.A one-page printable with the balance exercises and the room-by-room safety checklist — perfect to post on the fridge or share with a parent. Tell us where to send it.
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Good to know
No. While more than one in four older adults falls each year, falling is not an inevitable part of getting older. The CDC and NIA agree that most falls are preventable through exercise, medication and vision checks, and home safety changes.
Strength and balance exercises are the most effective. Tai chi has especially strong evidence, and simple home moves like sit-to-stands, heel-to-toe walking, single-leg stands, and calf raises build the strength and steadiness that keep you upright. Check with a provider before starting.
Install grab bars by the toilet and tub, remove or secure loose throw rugs, add night lights, put handrails on both sides of stairs, keep walkways clear, and wear sturdy non-slip shoes indoors. The bathroom is the highest-priority room.
Yes. Sedatives, tranquilizers, some antidepressants, and even certain over-the-counter drugs can cause dizziness or drowsiness. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review everything you take, including supplements.
Even small changes in sight are linked to a higher fall risk, so the NIA recommends regular vision and hearing checks. Keeping eyeglass prescriptions current and homes well lit both help.
If you're hurt or can't get up, call for help — a medical alert device makes this easier for those who live alone. Even after a fall with no injury, tell your doctor: falling once roughly doubles your chance of falling again, so it's a signal to review what caused it.
Caring for a parent?
Fall-proofing the home is one piece. Our guide to helping aging parents covers the documents, money, and medical wishes to sort out together — before a crisis.
See the Aging Parents guide →