Falls Prevention Starts at Home

By Dan Lynch 

Occupational Therapist 

VNS Health 

Queens Voice 

October 7, 2025

NEW YORK - When I first met 87-year-old Lydia, I was coming to help her recover from a fall. More than the physical impact she had suffered, though, I quickly saw how the fall had made her fearful and that this was also impacting her quality of life

As I’ve found when I’m out in the field as an occupational therapist with VNS Health, Lydia was not alone—falls are alarmingly common among older adults. Having purchased a new, comfortable mattress, she also was now sleeping in a bed that was much higher for her—in fact, not long after getting her new bed, she suffered from a fall while she was getting out of it on her way to the bathroom. Afraid of injuring herself again, she had taken to sleeping with her pet cat on her couch, where she was less comfortable, because she was unable to safely make it in and out of her new bed.

One of the most common places for a fall to happen is also where we spend the most time—the home. A fall can make people second-guess their strength or fear they can’t move around like they used to. Many feel embarrassed or afraid to talk about it. But there’s no shame in asking for help, especially when it comes to staying safe and taking care of yourself.

Occupational therapists are known for their problem-solving skills. So I knew it was time to put on my “problem-solver” hat and find a way for Lydia to be able enjoy the comfortable new mattress she’d been so looking forward to using, without the risk or fear of another fall. I tracked down an affordable alternative to a springboard on Amazon that would allow us to lower the height of Lydia’s mattress and help lessen the chance of her falling again. With a lower mattress height, Lydia could go back to using her bed more safely. It was gratifying to know she could do something so simple, but so important, like getting a good night’s rest where she was most comfortable (and more room for pet friends too!).

The goal with rehabilitation therapy, be it occupational or physical therapy, is to help patients rebuild the skills needed for “activities of daily living.” This can encompass many things we take for granted, like being able to independently use the bathroom, or making a meal more easily, or, as Lydia and I worked on—getting in and out of spaces safely. Because I’m caring for patients in the place they live, I often find myself feeling like a detective, as I work to find and address fall risks around their home, as well as discover what my client wants and needs most. It’s gratifying when I find those “aha” moments and help patients regain their independence.

I often remind people that while recovery can be challenging, even a few lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of future falls. There’s a reason for the old saying: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!”

Here are some tried-and-true tips I often share with my patients:

• Clear the living space to ensure safe mobility.

• Remove clutter, loose rugs, and unnecessary furniture from walkways to create a clear path. This helps prevent trips and falls, especially for those with limited mobility or vision challenges. A tidy space also promotes peace of mind and easier navigation. 

• Monitor medications.
  Regularly review your prescriptions and over-the-counter medications with a healthcare provider, especially those that can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or low blood pressure. These side effects can increase fall risk, so staying informed is key. 

• Swap out oversized outfits.
  After weight loss, some patients don’t realize their clothes no longer fit. Loose or dragging garments can increase fall risk. Well-fitting clothes help maintain mobility and comfort. 

• If the shoe fits…
  Feet can shrink or change shape with age, making old shoes a poor fit. Choose shoes with non-slip soles and good arch support. Avoid slippers or backless shoes, which can slip off or cause imbalance. 

• Adjust sleeping positions to reduce nighttime falls.
  Sleeping near the edge of the bed increases the risk of rolling off or falling when getting up. Sleeping closer to the center or using bed rails can help promote safer rest.

Making changes can be tough, no matter what the age—but those caring for you, from occupational therapists to physical therapists, nurses and home health aides to friends and family, are here to help you every step of the way. I am continuously inspired by the way my patients commit to making changes, trying new approaches, and educating themselves to ensure they stay safe, independent, and empowered.

 

To learn more about rehabilitation therapy in-home, visit vnshealth.org.