Fall prevention for older adults means removing hazards at home, keeping up strength and balance, reviewing medications with a doctor, and adding trained help when a person needs it. In Arizona, falls are the leading cause of injury related death among residents 65 and older, averaging about two deaths every day, according to the Arizona Falls Prevention Coalition. Many falls can be prevented with a few practical changes.
Fall statistics for older adults in Arizona and the United States
- Arizona: Falls are the leading cause of injury related death among Arizona residents 65 and older, at about 2 deaths per day. Source: Arizona Falls Prevention Coalition, using 2022 Arizona data.
- United States, frequency: 1 in 3 adults 65 and older falls each year. Source: Arizona Falls Prevention Coalition.
- United States, total falls: About 36 million falls are reported among seniors each year. Source: CDC figures cited by Maricopa County.
- United States, emergency care: Senior falls lead to more than 3 million emergency department visits each year. Source: CDC figures cited by Maricopa County.
- United States, deaths: Senior falls cause about 32,000 deaths each year. Source: CDC figures cited by Maricopa County.
Maricopa County notes that the real numbers are likely higher, because many seniors do not report a fall or seek medical care afterward.
What is World Osteoporosis Day, and why does it matter for fall prevention?
World Osteoporosis Day is an annual awareness day observed on October 20. Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, which makes fractures more likely when a person falls. Because weaker bones break more easily, preventing a fall matters even more for older adults with osteoporosis. A doctor can advise on bone health and fracture risk.
Why do older adults fall?
Older adults fall because several risk factors often combine. Common factors include changes in balance and muscle strength, vision changes, medication side effects such as dizziness, and hazards at home such as loose rugs, poor lighting, and slippery floors. A doctor or pharmacist can review medications, and an eye exam can identify vision changes.
Home safety checklist for preventing falls
Entryways and patios
- Check steps, thresholds, and uneven pavers at front doors and patios.
- Install sturdy handrails on entry steps.
- Add bright lighting so entrances are clear after dark.
Bathroom
- Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower.
- Place nonslip mats in the tub, shower, and on the bathroom floor.
- Consider a shower chair for anyone who tires or feels unsteady while standing.
Bedroom and hallways
- Place night lights along the path from the bed to the bathroom.
- Remove loose rugs, or secure them firmly to the floor.
- Keep hallways free of cords and clutter.
Kitchen and living areas
- Encourage supportive shoes or slippers with grip, since tile and hardwood floors can be slippery in socks.
- Store everyday items between waist and shoulder height so no one needs to climb on a stool.
- Arrange furniture so walkways are wide and clear.
Warning signs that a loved one may need help at home
- Near falls, or holding onto furniture and walls while walking
- Difficulty getting up from a chair or out of bed
- New bruises, or a growing fear of walking or bathing
- A recent hospital or rehab stay
- Changes in medications that cause dizziness or drowsiness
- A family caregiver who is exhausted and worried about leaving a loved one alone
How does BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe help reduce fall risk?
BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe reduces fall risk through Registered Nurse oversight, an individualized care plan for every client, and trained caregivers who help with bathing, walking, and transfers.
RN oversight and the individualized care plan
RN oversight means a Registered Nurse (RN) visits the home, assesses the client's safety and health needs, writes an individualized care plan, trains the caregiver on that specific client, and revisits regularly to update the plan as needs change. Fall risk is one of the health situations where this clinical oversight matters most.
Caregiver help with daily activities
BrightStar Care caregivers assist with activities of daily living, often called ADLs. ADLs include bathing, dressing, toileting, eating, walking, and transferring. Transferring means helping someone move from a bed to a chair. These are everyday moments when a fall can happen.
Transitional care after a hospital or rehab stay
Transitional care is care for clients who have just been discharged from a hospital or rehab facility. It helps them recover safely at home.
No minimum hours
BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe has no minimum hours. A family can start with a small amount of help, such as a caregiver for morning showers three days a week, and adjust as needs change.
Accreditation, licensing, and caregiver employment
BrightStar Care is Joint Commission Accredited. The Joint Commission is a U.S. organization that accredits hospitals and other healthcare providers. The agency is also state licensed for skilled nursing by the Arizona Department of Health Services. Every caregiver is a W-2 employee who is background checked, trained, and insured.
Frequently asked questions
What is the leading cause of injury related death for older adults in Arizona?
Falls are the leading cause of injury related death among Arizona residents 65 and older, averaging about two deaths every day, according to the Arizona Falls Prevention Coalition.
How can I make my home safer for an older adult?
Start with the bathroom by installing grab bars and nonslip mats. Then add night lights between the bedroom and bathroom, remove or secure loose rugs, and improve lighting at entrances and steps.
When should a family consider home care after a fall?
Consider help when a loved one has had a fall or near fall, returns home from a hospital or rehab stay, or struggles with bathing, walking, or getting out of a bed or chair. A Registered Nurse assessment can identify the right level of support.
Does BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe require a minimum number of hours?
No. BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe has no minimum hours, so families can start with as little help as they need.
What is World Osteoporosis Day?
World Osteoporosis Day is an annual awareness day observed on October 20. Osteoporosis weakens bones and makes fractures more likely when a person falls.
Talk with BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe
If you are worried about a fall at home, call BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe at 480-897-1166. We serve Phoenix, Tempe, Goodyear, Casa Grande, Arcadia, Maricopa, and Buckeye.