Home Safety Checklist: OTC Products That Prevent Falls and Injuries

Making Your Home Safer

Every year, 3 million seniors are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries, and the majority of falls happen at home. Many fall-prevention and home safety products are available through your OTC benefit. A few strategic purchases each quarter can dramatically reduce your fall risk and make your home safer.

Bathroom Safety

• Non-slip bath mat: The most important safety product you can buy. Place suction-cup mats inside the tub or shower. The bathroom is where 80% of senior home falls occur
• Grab bar pads: Foam grip covers for existing grab bars improve your grip when hands are wet and soapy. If you don't have grab bars, talk to your doctor about a home modification referral
• Non-slip treads: Adhesive non-slip strips for the bottom of the tub. These add an extra layer of traction even with a bath mat
• Nightlight: A motion-activated nightlight for the bathroom eliminates the need to find a light switch during nighttime visits. Automatic activation prevents stumbling in the dark

Bedroom Safety

• Bed rail pads: If you use bed rails, foam pads prevent bruising if you roll against them during sleep. They also make rails more comfortable to grip when getting in and out of bed
• Non-slip socks: Rubber-soled socks for walking on hard floors. Regular socks on hardwood or tile are one of the most common fall causes
• Flashlight: Keep a flashlight on your nightstand for power outages. Getting up in complete darkness is extremely dangerous. Battery-operated lanterns are even better

Kitchen Safety

• Non-slip shelf liner: Rubberized shelf liner prevents items from sliding when you open cabinets. It also makes gripping items at shoulder height safer
• Jar openers: Rubber grip pads and jar openers reduce hand strain and prevent the sudden jerking motion that can cause loss of balance when trying to open tight lids
• Reach grabbers: Extended grabber tools for reaching items on high shelves without using a step stool. Step stools are a major fall risk — grabbers eliminate the need entirely

General Home Safety

• Motion-sensor lights: Battery-operated motion lights for hallways, stairs, and entryways. Automatic lighting eliminates dark spots that hide trip hazards
• First aid kit: A stocked first aid kit means you can treat minor injuries at home without rushing to urgent care. Falls that result in cuts or scrapes need immediate cleaning to prevent infection