Which area of the home do older patients most commonly fall?

Older patients most commonly experience falls in the tub or bathroom area, and this is primarily due to several factors. Bathrooms often have wet surfaces, which significantly increase the risk of slipping. Additionally, the act of stepping in and out of a bathtub can require certain physical skills and balance that may be compromised in older adults. Many older individuals may also have conditions such as arthritis, which can affect their mobility and stability when navigating these areas.

In contrast, while falls can occur in other areas of the home like the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, the specific conditions in the bathroom, particularly around tubs, create unique hazards. For instance, the confined space and the presence of fixtures such as grab bars or low lighting can exacerbate the risk. Understanding these risks is crucial for implementing safety measures in the home, such as putting non-slip mats in the tub or installing grab bars, to help reduce the likelihood of falls among older adults.