Fall Prevention in Wisconsin | Home Safety & DME Solutions
Steady at Home: Fall Prevention in Wisconsin
September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month — a perfect time to prioritize safety at home.
Table of Contents
Why Fall Prevention Matters in Wisconsin
Falls are not just a personal concern — they’re a statewide public health issue.
Wisconsin has the highest rate of deadly falls among older adults in the country. This is according to a 2022 Wisconsin EMS and Falls Report release by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
- Between 2018 and 2020, nearly5,000 adults aged 65+ in Wisconsin died as a result of falls — almost three times the number killed in car crashes.
- The financial toll is staggering: fall injuries cost Wisconsin families and healthcare systems over $1 billion annually.
The majority of these falls happen in or around the home. That means prevention is possible — and often starts with simple changes.
Common Causes of Falls at Home
Understanding the most frequent risks can help families be proactive:
Slippery bathrooms with tubs, showers, or tile floors.
Poor lighting in hallways, staircases, and entryways.
Loose rugs, cords, or clutter creating trip hazards.
Uneven steps or thresholds between rooms and entry doors.
Balance issues related to aging, medications, or chronic conditions.
Identifying risks is the first step — and modifying the home environment is often the most effective way to reduce them.
Smart Home Modifications to Reduce Fall Risk
1. Make the Bathroom Safer
The bathroom is one of the most common fall locations. HME offers practical updates designed for safety without sacrificing comfort:
Tub Cutouts & Walk-In Showers – A tub cutout creates a low-entry access point, eliminating the need to step over high edges. Walk-in showers take safety further with barrier-free entry.
Grab Bars – Professionally installed near toilets, showers, tubs, and even doorways, grab bars provide steady support right where it’s needed.
Non-Slip Flooring & Shower Seats – Slip-resistant flooring and sturdy seats reduce risk and increase confidence. Pair with a handheld showerhead for greater independence.
2. Improve Everyday Accessibility
Falls often happen in transition spaces — getting in and out of the home or moving from one room to another.
Accessible Steps & Ramps – Modified steps or threshold ramps provide smooth transitions where uneven flooring or steps pose risks.
Doorway Widening & Extenders – Makes it easier for those using rollators or walkers to move safely.
Handrails or Grab Bars on Both Sides of Stairs – Doubling the support can make stair use significantly safer.
- Stair lifts or Vertical Platform Lifts — Access upper or lower floors easily and safely without the cost and hassle of an elevator.
3. Rely on the Right Mobility Equipment
Mobility aids can be an essential line of defense against falls:
Rollators & Walkers – Ideal for longer distances, offering balance and stability.
Canes – A lightweight solution for those needing just a little extra support.
Other DME – Raised toilet seats, bedside commodes, and shower benches can all help reduce risky transfers.
FAQs: What Families Often Ask
Do grab bars need to be professionally installed?
Yes. For safety, grab bars should be anchored into wall studs or blocking. Adhesive or suction options are not recommended for long-term use.
Does Medicare cover fall-prevention equipment?
Medicare does not typically cover items like grab bars, tub cutouts, or bathroom remodels. However, some mobility aids (like walkers) may be covered with a physician’s order. HME staff can guide families through options.
Are fall risks only a concern for seniors?
No. While older adults are most at risk, anyone with balance issues, chronic conditions, or mobility limitations can benefit from fall-prevention strategies.
Beyond the Home: Staying Strong & Confident
Home modifications are powerful, but they work best when paired with healthy routines:
Balance & Strength Exercises – Programs like Stepping On, Tai Chi, and the Walk with Ease Program, often offered at little to no cost by the local ADRC, can reduce falls by improving stability.
Regular Vision & Hearing Checks – Poor vision or hearing loss can increase fall risk.
Medication Reviews – Some prescriptions cause dizziness or drowsiness. A pharmacist or physician can review for safety.
Community Resources in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers excellent fall-prevention programs that complement home modifications:
Falls Free Wisconsin Coalition – Statewide initiative working to reduce fall rates through education and community programs.
Stepping On Workshops – Group programs proven to reduce falls by over 30%.
Local Aging & Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) – Provide referrals, workshops, and resources for older adults and caregivers.
Pairing these resources with in-home safety upgrades provides the most comprehensive protection.
How HME Home Medical Can Help
At HME, our goal is to keep you steady, safe, and independent in your own home. Our services include:
Tub Cutouts & Shower Remodels – Customized to your bathroom needs.
Grab Bar Installation – Secure, professional placement for maximum safety.
Accessible Steps & Doorway Enhancements – Tailored to your home’s layout.
Mobility Equipment – Rollators, canes, walkers, and other aids available locally.
Home Safety Consultations – Our experts can identify risks and recommend personalized solutions.
With licensed installers, medical-grade products, and decades of experience, HME is your trusted local partner in fall prevention.
Final Thoughts
Falls are the leading cause of injury for older adults in Wisconsin — but they are preventable. By making thoughtful home modifications, using the right equipment, and tapping into community programs, families can greatly reduce risks.
Take the First Step Toward a Safer Home
Our experts can recommend the right modifications and mobility equipment to reduce fall risks. Contact HME Home Medical today to get started.
