Lighting the Way for Falls Prevention

Many people, regardless of age, don’t often think about the areas of a home that can be dangerous. Have you ever thought about how a simple light can make a huge difference in finding your way safely in your home? Or how a grab bar could save a loved one from losing balance and falling?

Rebuilding Together affiliates across the country have incorporated falls prevention solutions into their work. As we raise awareness during Falls Prevention Week, we’d like to highlight the work of Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada. This affiliate recently won a grant from the State of Nevada Aging and Disability Services Division to implement a comprehensive Fall Prevention Program that will include essential home modifications and educational community outreach activities.

With a goal of serving 75 homeowners, Rebuilding Together Northern Nevada is undertaking a year-long project to provide falls prevention services for neighbors in need by installing grab bars and ramps, improving indoor and outdoor lighting and removing tripping hazards. Additionally, the program will feature a Fall Prevention Awareness pamphlet, educational tips and outreach events from September through June 2025 to raise awareness about the risks of falling and how to prevent them.

At Rebuilding Together, we work to help neighbors in need remain safe in the homes and communities they love and that includes thinking about how we can help prevent falls at home. Here are a few simple actions that can make a big difference:

1. Make sure walkways have good lighting.

• Make sure outside entryways are properly lit so you can see where you are stepping.
• Use a motion-activated or plug-in night light in hallways for getting up at night.
• Increase lighting to reduce shadows by using LED bulbs.

2. Widen or clear pathways within each room of your home.

• Remove unnecessary throw rugs and clutter and pick up items from the floor.
• Keep cords away from walking paths by coiling or taping them next to the wall.
• Use a surge protector power strip to reduce electrical cords.

3. Add sturdy supports in your living spaces, including bathrooms.

• Repair or replace furniture that isn’t sturdy.
• Do not hold on to the sink or towel rack in your bathroom for balance. These are not designed to bear your weight. Consult with an occupational therapist or Rebuilding Together affiliate for grab bar options and installation.

4. Organize spaces to fit your needs.

• Move heavy items or things you use regularly to easy-to-reach places, such as locations at waist or shoulder height.
• Have lights easily accessible from the doorway and the bed in easy-to-reach places.

5. Secure throw rugs and use non-slip rubber mats.

• If using a rug, use double-sided tape or a non-slip backing to secure it.
• Put a non-slip rubber mat or self-stick strips on the floor of the tub or shower.

As you think about those you love, remember that preventing falls is one way to keep your friends, family and neighbors safe while maintaining their independence. If you are interested in learning more ways to make your home safer, please check out Rebuilding Together’s 25 Safe and Healthy Priorities.