Stairways were the second most dangerous zone, according to the study, which was published in April in the American Journal of Public Health . Night lights and light switches at the top of bottom of stairways were missing, as were handrails. Uneven steps spelled further trouble. Kitchens were next on the list, with poor lighting and unstable step stools and storage areas that required an older person to reach high or bend low. Preventing falls Preventing falls is key to avoiding injury from osteoporosis.
Weak bones are slow to heal, so even a minor fracture can be disabling to an elderly person.
To prevent falls, the American Federation for Aging Research offers the following advice for older people. Do a safety check around your home Get rid of rugs or cords that might trip you. Have someone install sturdy handrails on all stairways and grab bars in bathrooms. Cover stairs with lightly woven carpet or nonslip treads. Do not wax floors and always clean up spills as soon as they happen.