Megan Dusenberry, PT, DPT, OCS
Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults — but most of them are preventable. With a few simple changes and habits, you can make your home safer and keep yourself (or a loved one) steady, confident, and independent.
Here’s your ultimate guide to creating a safer home environment:
1. Light Your Way
Poor lighting is one of the most common causes of falls — especially at night.
- Install nightlights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
- Keep a small lamp or flashlight next to the bed.
- Make sure stairways and entrances are well-lit.
Good lighting can make all the difference when you get up in the middle of the night.
2. Clear Your Pathways
Take a fresh look at the areas you walk through every day:
- Remove clutter, cords, and loose items from floors.
- Secure or remove throw rugs.
- Rearrange furniture to create wide, clear walking paths.
3. Add Stability Where You Need It
Supportive features make moving around safer:
- Install grab bars in the bathroom (near the toilet and inside the shower/tub).
- Add non-slip mats inside and outside of showers.
- Consider a sturdy handrail on both sides of the stairs.
4. Strengthen Your Body
A safe home isn’t just about the space — it’s about you, too.
- Work on balance exercises (standing on one foot, heel-to-toe walk).
- Strengthen your legs with sit-to-stand exercises, mini squats, or step-ups.
- Stretch regularly to keep your joints moving well.
5. Stop “Furniture Surfing”
Many people rely on holding onto walls, counters, or furniture to get around the house — but this can actually increase fall risk.
- Use a cane, walker, or other mobility aid if recommended by your doctor or physical therapist.
- If you notice yourself “furniture surfing,” it’s a sign you may need a balance screening or mobility assessment.
The goal is steady, independent walking — not just staying upright by grabbing whatever’s nearby.
6. Check Your Shoes
Footwear matters more than most people think.
- Wear shoes with good traction and support, even inside the house.
- Avoid slippers without backs, flip-flops, or socks on slick floors.
7. Review Your Medications and Vision
Sometimes fall risks start with things we don’t see:
- Ask your doctor if any medications cause dizziness or drowsiness.
- Get your eyes checked yearly — even small prescription changes can make a difference in depth perception.
8. Keep Frequently Used Items Within Reach
Avoid climbing or reaching on tiptoe whenever possible:
- Store commonly used kitchen or bathroom items at waist level.
- Use a sturdy step stool with a handle if you need to reach higher shelves.
Take Action Today
Fall prevention starts with small steps — and they add up to a safer, more confident life. If you’ve had a fall, are feeling unsteady, or find yourself relying on furniture to get around, schedule a balance screening with our physical therapy team.
Together, we can help you stay safe, strong, and independent.
Megan Dusenberry, PT, DPT, OCS
Megan has been practicing as a physical therapist for 14 years after graduating with distinction from Northern Arizona University. She earned her undergraduate degree in physiology from the University of Arizona. A Tucson native, Megan has also lived in Flagstaff, Oklahoma City, and Chicago.
Megan has experience in outpatient orthopedic clinics and home health and is a board-certified orthopedic specialist. She emphasizes patient-focused, individualized care and places a strong value on functional, exercise-based treatment.
In her free time, Megan enjoys walking her dog, hiking, reading, playing sports with her son, and spending time with her family.
