29/08/2026
Look closely at this photo. Can you identify the risk factors inside the home that increase the risk of falls for older adults?
⚠️ Why do older adults fall at home?
When an older adult falls indoors or outdoors, it is rarely due to a single cause. There are multiple contributing factors (multifactorial).
Mainly, these causes can be divided into two categories:
Physical/Internal Factors (Intrinsic Factors)
Physical weakness and loss of balance that occur with aging
Impaired vision
Dizziness, bone weakness, or other chronic health conditions
Side effects of certain medications
Illnesses
Environmental/External Factors (Extrinsic Factors)
Wet or slippery floors
Insufficient lighting
Belongings, clutter, or electrical cords lying along walkways
Staircases and bathrooms without handrails
Footwear that does not fit properly
🔄 Interaction between these factors
Most often, an older adult falls due to a combination (interaction) of an internal physical weakness and an environmental hazard. For example, an older person with slightly reduced vision (an intrinsic factor) is highly likely to trip and fall over an obstacle on the floor in a poorly lit room.
🏠 Let's identify environmental risks and arrange the home safely!
Although we cannot completely prevent the aging process or certain physical changes in older adults, we can significantly prevent falls by minimizing hazards in their living environment.
Therefore, modifying your home (Home Rearrangement)—specifically making the bathroom, bedroom, living room, and staircase safe for older adults—is crucial for their safety and independence.
