Navigating the Golden Years Column: A safer home is the key to staying independent

By Jenny Quirie, senior real estate specialist

SHERWOOD, Ore. — Every September, communities across the country observe National Fall Prevention Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about one of the greatest threats to independent living for older adults. 

When people think about falls, they often picture icy sidewalks or outdoor accidents. In reality, the greatest risk is much closer to home. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four adults age 65 and older experiences a fall each year, making falls the leading cause of injury among older adults. Research from the University of Florida IFAS Extension also shows that approximately 60% of falls occur in and around the home, where most of us spend the majority of our time. 

The encouraging news is that many falls can be prevented. Simple home modifications and a few thoughtful changes to everyday routines can significantly reduce the risk while making a home more comfortable and easier to navigate. 

Start at the front door 

Creating a safer home begins before you ever step inside. Take a walk from the sidewalk to your front door and ask yourself a few simple questions. 

• Is the walkway level and free of cracks? 

• Is the porch well lit after dark? 

• Are sturdy handrails installed wherever there are steps? 

• Is your house number clearly visible so emergency responders can find your home quickly? These small details can make a meaningful difference in both safety and accessibility. 

Walk through your home with fresh eyes 

Now imagine walking through your home at night or carrying a basket of laundry. Are electrical cords stretched across the floor? Do throw rugs slide underfoot? Has furniture gradually narrowed your walking paths? 

Many falls happen because of everyday hazards that are easy to overlook. Keeping walkways clear, securing or removing loose rugs, and rearranging furniture to create wider pathways can greatly improve safety. 

Make the bathroom safer 

Bathrooms are one of the most common places for falls because of wet, slippery surfaces and limited places to steady yourself. 

Installing grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower is one of the most effective ways to reduce fall risk. Today's grab bars are available in attractive finishes that complement almost any style of home. 

Other simple improvements include: 

• Non-slip bath mats 
• Handheld showerheads
• Shower benches or chairs 
• Comfort-height or raised toilet seats, when appropriate 
• Bright lighting, especially for nighttime visits 

Make everyday tasks easier 

Fall prevention is often about eliminating unnecessary risks before they become accidents. 

Store frequently used dishes, cookware, and pantry items between waist and shoulder height to avoid climbing on stools or reaching overhead. Replace burned-out light bulbs promptly, install motion-sensing lights in hallways and bathrooms, and keep a flashlight beside the bed in case of a power outage. 

These inexpensive improvements can make daily routines both safer and more convenient. 

Independence begins at home 

One of the biggest misconceptions about aging is that remaining independent means doing everything the same way you always have. In reality, independence often means adapting your home so it continues to meet your needs as they change. 

Making your home safer is not about giving something up. It is about protecting the lifestyle you have worked so hard to build. 

This National Fall Prevention Month, take time to view your home through a new lens. Better yet, invite a family member or trusted friend to walk through your home with you. A fresh perspective may identify hazards that have gone unnoticed for years. 

A few simple improvements today can help protect your independence tomorrow. After all, the goal is not simply to remain in your home. It is to continue living there safely, confidently, and with peace of mind.

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); University of Florida IFAS Extension. © 2026 Jenny Quirie | Forever Home Aging in Place Services. All Rights Reserved. 

Written by Jenny Quirie, Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) & Certified Senior Home Safety Specialist®. This article may not be reproduced or distributed without written permission.