Fall Prevention for Rhode Island Seniors: A Complete Home Safety Guide

Why Falls Are a Crisis — and Preventable

In Rhode Island, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults 65 and older. Every year, thousands of Rhode Island seniors are hospitalized after falls — many preventable. The good news: evidence-based interventions can reduce fall risk by 30-50%.

Assess Your Risk

You or your loved one may be at higher fall risk if:

• History of one or more falls in the past year
• Difficulty walking, balance problems, or unsteady gait
• Taking 4 or more medications (especially blood pressure, sleep, or pain meds)
• Vision problems (cataracts, glaucoma)
• Foot pain or ill-fitting footwear
• Home hazards: loose rugs, poor lighting, no grab bars
• Fear of falling (which itself increases risk)

Home Modifications That Work

High-priority changes:

• Remove all throw rugs or secure with double-sided tape
• Install grab bars in bathroom (toilet, tub, shower)
• Improve lighting in all areas — especially bedroom-to-bathroom path
• Move frequently used items to waist height
• Install stair handrails on both sides

Low-cost quick wins:

• Non-slip mats in shower and bath
• Night lights in bedroom, hallway, bathroom
• Secure all electrical cords along walls
• Wear supportive, non-slip footwear indoors

Exercise Programs That Reduce Falls

Physical activity is one of the most effective fall prevention strategies. Programs proven to reduce falls:

• Tai Chi — Available at many Rhode Island senior centers
• Matter of Balance — RI-based program; call (401) 462-3000 to find local sessions
• Stepping On — Evidence-based 7-week workshop
• YMCA Balance & Strength — Multiple RI locations

Medication Review

Many medications increase fall risk: sedatives, blood pressure medications, antihistamines, antidepressants, and diuretics. Ask your doctor for a medication review — the goal is never to stop needed medications, but to identify safer alternatives.

How Home Care Supports Fall Prevention

In Home Wellcare caregivers are trained in:

• Safe transfer and mobility assistance techniques
• Fall risk assessment and environmental observation
• Encouraging and reminding clients to use assistive devices
• Reporting changes in gait, strength, or behavior

Having a caregiver present during the highest-risk times — morning routines, night bathroom trips — dramatically reduces fall risk. Call (401) 402-0076 to discuss fall prevention support for your family.