According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people aged 65+. One-third of seniors 65 years and older fall each year.

Since over half of falls happen at home, here are preventive measures for the home that are simple and effective:

• Light up your home environment. This includes placing night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Make sure also you have a clear path to light switches especially those hard to reach switches. Place a flashlight in an easy assessible area in several locations.
• DeClutter: Keep clutter in the home to a minimum.
  • Remove boxes, newspapers, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways.
  • Move coffee tables, magazine racks and plant stands from high-traffic areas.
  • Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks or a slip-resistant backing — or remove loose rugs from your home.
  • Repair loose, wooden floorboards and carpeting right away.
• Out-of-reach items: Keep objects in your home at a level you can easily and safely reach. Store clothing, dishes, food and other necessities within easy reach.
• Repair trip hazards: Repair cracks in sidewalks in front of buildings and homes: Be alert and use caution; also inform someone so that they can repair them in compliance with the safe public access laws. Also watch for raised sidewalks due to overgrown tree roots.
• Small pets: Be aware of pets that get underfoot and may cause a fall.
• Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease or food to avoid slippery conditions.
• Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower. Use a bath seat, which allows you to sit while showering. Add grab bars inside and outside of your bathtub or shower and next to the toilet.

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