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Where Do People Over 75 Fall the Most? The Surprising Answer Is at Home

    As we age, the risk of falling becomes a more pressing concern, and for those over 75, this risk increases significantly. A common misconception is that falls are most likely to happen in public, on uneven sidewalks or in crowded stores. However, overwhelming evidence reveals a more startling truth: for older adults, the most dangerous place is often the one they know best.

    The vast majority of falls—up to 80% of those resulting in emergency department visits—happen inside or around the home.[1] This number increases with age; adults 85 and older are even more likely to fall at home compared to their younger counterparts aged 65 to 74.[1]

    Understanding exactly where these falls occur is the first step toward effective prevention. By identifying these high-risk “hotspots,” seniors and their families can make targeted modifications to create a safer living environment.

    The Top 3 Fall Hotspots in the Home

    While every room has potential hazards, data consistently points to three specific locations where falls are most common for older adults.[1]

    1. The Bedroom (Most Common for Adults 85+)
    It may seem like a safe haven, but the bedroom is a frequent site for falls, particularly for the oldest adults.[1] Falls in the bedroom often happen during the night or first thing in the morning.

    • Why it’s a risk: Getting in and out of bed, especially when dizzy or stiff after sleeping, is a primary trigger.[2] Poor lighting for nighttime trips to the bathroom, clutter on the floor, and unsecured rugs create a hazardous path. For those 85 and older, a significant percentage of falls occur in the bedroom.[1]
    • Prevention tips:
      • Install bright, easy-to-reach lighting from the bed, and use nightlights to illuminate the path to the bathroom.
      • Keep the floor clear of all clutter, including shoes, books, and electrical cords.
      • Ensure the bed is at a height where feet can be placed firmly on the floor when seated on the edge.
      • Remove or secure all throw rugs with non-slip backing.[3]

    2. The Bathroom
    The bathroom is a universally recognized danger zone due to its combination of hard surfaces and water.[4] For many seniors, this room is a site of significant fall risk.[1][2]

    • Why it’s a risk: Wet, slippery floors are the most obvious hazard.[2] However, the physical actions required—stepping in and out of a tub, sitting and standing from the toilet—are challenging for those with balance issues or lower body weakness.[4]
    • Prevention tips:
      • Install grab bars inside the shower/tub and next to the toilet. These are essential for providing stability.[4]
      • Use non-slip mats both inside the tub/shower and on the bathroom floor.
      • Consider a raised toilet seat or a toilet safety frame to make sitting and standing easier.
      • Ensure adequate, bright lighting.

    3. The Stairs (Most Common for Adults 65-74)
    Stairs represent a major hazard, especially for the “younger-old” who may still be navigating them frequently. One study found that for adults aged 65 to 74, falls on stairs were more common than in any other location at home.[1]

    • Why it’s a risk: Stairs require strength, balance, and good vision—all of which can decline with age. Poor lighting can obscure steps, and carrying objects can obstruct views and throw off balance.
    • Prevention tips:
      • Install sturdy handrails on both sides of the staircase.[5]
      • Ensure stairs are well-lit, with light switches at both the top and bottom.
      • Remove any carpeting runners that are not securely tacked down.
      • Never leave clutter or objects on the stairs.

    Other High-Risk Areas

    While the bedroom, bathroom, and stairs are the top three, other areas also pose significant risks:

    • Living Rooms and Hallways: These areas account for a large percentage of falls, often due to clutter, poor lighting, and loose throw rugs.[2][6]
    • Kitchens: Spills on the floor can create slick surfaces, and reaching for items in high or low cabinets can lead to a loss of balance.[6]
    • Outside the Home: About 30% of falls occur in the community. For men, falls are more likely to happen outside than for women, with driveways and garages being common sites.[1][6]

    By focusing on these specific, evidence-based hotspots, seniors and their families can take practical, effective steps to mitigate the risk of a fall. Modifying the home is one of the most powerful strategies for preserving independence and ensuring a safe environment for aging in place.

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