Health library

Shine a light on fall prevention

Falling is especially dangerous for older adults, who may be more likely to break a bone. Making sure your home has good lighting is one of the steps you can take to avoid a tumble.

Here are some places around your home where you might want to add new overhead lights or install brighter bulbs.

WHERE GOOD LIGHTING MAY HELP

Top and bottom of stairways.
Bathrooms (add night-lights).
Bedrooms.

Bonus tip: Keep a flashlight with fresh batteries by your bed in case the power goes out and you need to get up at night.

Learn how balance exercises can also help keep you steady on your feet and less likely to fall.

Reviewed 5/1/2025

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. "About Older Adult Fall Prevention." https://www.cdc.gov/falls/about/.
National Council on Aging. "6 Falls Prevention Steps to Help Your Older Loved Ones." https://www.ncoa.org/article/6-falls-prevention-steps-to-help-your-older-loved-ones.
National Institute on Aging: "Preventing Falls at Home: Room by Room." https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/falls-and-falls-prevention/preventing-falls-home-room-room.