Around 14.1% of Malaysians aged 60 years and above report at least one fall in the past 12 months.

In Malaysia’s National Health and Morbidity Survey 2018, falls are linked with chronic disease (especially diabetes) and limitations in daily living.

Many active seniors enjoy living independently and moving freely in their own homes. But one simple fall can change everything. Falls are one of the most common causes of injury among older adults — and too often, they lead to loss of mobility, long hospital stays, or even permanent loss of independence. Medical treatment and rehabilitation can also be costly and stressful.

That’s why prevention is always better than cure. Doing a home hazard assessment is an important first step. It means carefully checking every corner of the home to identify things that could cause slips, trips, or falls — like uneven floors, poor lighting, loose rugs, or cluttered walkways.

Once hazards are identified, home modifications can be made to create a safer living environment. Simple changes such as installing grab bars in the bathroom, adding non-slip mats, improving lighting, or rearranging furniture to create clear pathways can greatly reduce the risk of accidents.

A safe home helps seniors maintain their confidence and independence. It also gives peace of mind to family members, knowing their loved ones are living in a secure and supportive environment.

So don’t wait for an accident to happen. Take time to do a home hazard assessment today — because prevention truly is better than cure.