September is Fall Prevention Month, making it an important time to think about the steps we can take to make our homes safer. Falls are a common concern, particularly for older adults, but they are not an inevitable part of aging. Simple changes to the home, combined with healthy habits and awareness, can help reduce the risk of falls and support greater independence.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) plays an important role in raising awareness about fall prevention. Each year, NCOA leads Falls Prevention Awareness Week, a national campaign focused on educating older adults, caregivers, and communities about practical ways to reduce fall risk. In 2026, Falls Prevention Awareness Week takes place September 21–25.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 14 million adults age 65 and older report falling each year, about one in four older adults. Falls are also the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and older. The effects of a fall can extend beyond the immediate injury. A serious fall can affect mobility, confidence, and independence, sometimes making it more difficult for someone to continue living safely at home. The good news is that there are practical steps people can take to reduce their risk.
Fall Prevention Starts at Home
One of the most important parts of fall prevention is creating a home environment that supports safe movement. Everyday hazards such as loose rugs, clutter, poor lighting, and slippery surfaces can increase the chance of a fall. The bathroom deserves particular attention. Wet floors, tubs, showers, and changes in elevation can create challenging conditions, especially for anyone with limited balance or mobility.
The CDC specifically recommends adding grab bars inside and outside tubs and showers and next to toilets as part of making a home safer. A properly installed grab bar can provide a stable point of support when entering or exiting a shower, standing up from the toilet, or moving around the bathroom. Grab bars are not a replacement for other fall prevention measures, but they can be an important part of a comprehensive approach to bathroom safety.
Other Ways to Reduce Fall Risk
Fall prevention goes beyond making changes to the home. NCOA recommends taking a comprehensive approach that can include improving strength and balance, reviewing medications with a healthcare professional, having regular vision and hearing examinations, and addressing potential hazards around the home.
NCOA also offers the Falls Free CheckUp, a free online assessment that helps older adults understand their risk of falling and provides personalized recommendations for reducing that risk. It is one useful starting point for anyone who wants to take a more proactive approach to fall prevention.
Make Fall Prevention Part of Your Routine
Fall Prevention Month is a good reminder that creating a safer home does not have to mean making dramatic changes all at once. Start by looking at the places where support is most needed. Remove obvious hazards, improve lighting, address slippery surfaces, and consider whether additional support, such as properly installed grab bars, could make everyday activities safer and more comfortable.
At BestGrabBars, we believe bathroom safety should be accessible without sacrificing comfort or style. Our selection of grab bars and bathroom safety products is designed to provide support throughout the bathroom, helping homeowners, caregivers, and older adults take another step toward a safer home.
Fall prevention is not limited to September. Use Fall Prevention Month as an opportunity to evaluate your home, learn about your personal fall risk, and make changes that can support safety and independence throughout the year. Take the first step toward a safer bathroom with BestGrabBars.
