The graying of the population lends a sense of urgency to the need to minimize injuries from falls, fires and other in-home accidents, which disproportionately affect older persons. For those 65 and older, falls are the leading cause of death from unintentional injury in the home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported recently. The CDC is stepping up its research into the problem and leading health and aging organizations are developing falls-prevention programs.
Exercise also tends to improve balance and coordination, another important safeguard against falls.
Keep pathways open in the home. Use only throw rugs with rubber, non-skid backing. Make bathrooms safe. Install grab bars and non-skid mats in bathtubs. Light stairways from top to bottom.