Falls Prevention Week Tips

Falls Prevention Week: 7 Days to Stay Strong, Safe, and Independent

September 21-27 is Falls Prevention Week, and at the Y, we are committed to helping our community stay safe, healthy, and independent at every age.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury for older adults, but many can be prevented with simple daily habits and small changes at home. This week, we challenge you to take one action each day to reduce your risk and build confidence in your everyday movement.

Day 1: Take a walk and test your balance. Movement is one of the best defenses against falls.

Action for today:

• Take a 15–30-minute walk.
• Practice standing on one foot while holding onto a sturdy chair.
• Try a balance, yoga, or strength class at the Y.

Why it matters: Strong muscles and good balance help you stay steady and react quickly if you stumble.

Day 2: Walk through your home with fresh eyes. Many falls happen at home because of hazards we stop noticing.

Action for today:

• Remove clutter from walkways.
• Move cords out of walking paths.
• Pick up items commonly left on the stairs.
• Look for areas where you could trip.

Why it matters: Clearing pathways creates a safer environment and reduces preventable accidents.

Day 3: Check your footwear. The wrong shoes can increase your risk of slipping or losing balance.

Action for today:

• Inspect your everyday shoes.
• Choose shoes with non-slip soles and good support.
• Replace worn-out footwear.
• Stop walking around in socks or loose slippers.

Why it matters: Proper footwear provides stability and better traction on a variety of surfaces.

Day 4: Brighten up your home. Good lighting helps you see obstacles before they become hazards.

Action for today:

• Replace burned-out light bulbs.
• Add a nightlight to bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways.
• Make sure the stairways and entrances are well-lit.

Why it matters: Better visibility helps prevent trips, especially at night.

Day 5: Schedule an Eye and Hearing Check. Vision and hearing play an important role in balance and awareness.

Action for today:

• Schedule an eye exam if you're overdue, and check that your current glasses prescriptions are up to date.
• Make an appointment for a hearing screening if needed.
• Why it matters: Seeing and hearing clearly helps you navigate your surroundings safely.

Day 6: Review your medications. Some medications can affect balance or cause dizziness.

Action for today:

• Make a list of all prescriptions and over-the-counter medications you take.
• Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about potential side effects.
• Ask whether any medications could increase your risk of falling.

Why it matters: Understanding side effects can help prevent unexpected balance issues.

Day 7: Add support where you need it. Small safety upgrades can make a big difference.

Action for today:

• Install or inspect grab bars in bathrooms.
• Check handrails on the stairs.
• Consider whether a cane, walker, or other assistive device could provide extra stability.
• Place non-slip mats in showers and bathtubs.

Why it matters: Supportive tools and home modifications can help you move safely and confidently while maintaining independence.

With these simple safety steps and healthy habits, many falls can be prevented, keeping you active, connected, and living well.