INTRODUCTION  

A safe home is the foundation of independent living. As we age, reaction time slows, balance shifts, bones become more brittle, vision and hearing fade, and medications can cause dizziness or confusion. What used to be minor inconveniences can become serious threats. Falls alone send over 3 million older adults to the ER every year in the U.S., and most happen at home.  

The good news: 80–90% of these incidents are preventable with low-cost, common-sense changes. This expanded guide gives room-by-room details, product recommendations, installation tips, and “why it matters” explanations so you or your caregiver can act immediately.