Falls are Serious: Spring into Safety with Easy Home Updates

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your space, and for older adults, it’s also an ideal time to remove hazards that could cause a fall. Falls are serious and fall prevention awareness can keep you safe and at home.

Falls Are Serious—and Costly

According to the CDC:

• 1 in 10 falls causes an injury that limits activity or requires medical care.
• About 3 million older adults annually visit the ER due to a fall.
• Roughly 1 million fall-related hospitalizations occur annually among older adults.

Stay Safe and Independent at Home

Most adults over 50 want to age in place. However, a recent Census Bureau report found that 1 in 10 adults over 65 struggle with basic tasks at home, like climbing stairs.

AARP recommends these safety upgrades:

Step 1: Low-Cost Safety Tips

• Add non-slip strips in showers and tubs.
• Use nonslip wax on floors.
• Remove throw rugs and chair wheels.
• Install lever-style door handles.
• Replace toilets with high-profile options.
• Add nonskid stair treads and rubber-backed bathmats.
• Use a shower chair with a back.

Step 2: Bigger Investments

• Install a walk-in shower or zero-threshold entry.
• Widen doorways and hallways.
• Lower or reposition light switches for accessibility.

Bonus Tips: Watch for pet tripping hazards and use brightly colored tape to highlight changes in floor surfaces.

Take advantage of the season—turn on some music, pour a glass of lemonade, and start your spring safety cleaning!

Need help planning for long-term care? Call Hurley Elder Care Law at 404-843-0121. We’re here to support you. We are Georgia’s premiere elder law firm.