Stop the Slip: Seasonal Home Safety Tips to Prevent Autumn Falls

A Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center expert weighs in

Manahawkin, N.J. - October 16, 2026 - Shorter daylight hours and wet, slippery leaves serve as a timely reminder for older adults: it is time to safeguard against seasonal hazards. Falls are the leading cause of injury for people over 65, with one in four older Americans falling each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

When these seasonal falls lead to a hospital visit, specialized care makes all the difference. Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center (SOMC) recently achieved Geriatric Emergency Department (ED) accreditation from the American College of Emergency Physicians, recognizing its dedication to providing specialized, high-quality care for the region's aging population.

“With about one-third of Ocean County residents aged 60 and older, protecting this population from seasonal hazards is a top priority,” says Paul Mastrokyriakos, DO, medical director of the Emergency Department at SOMC. “As an accredited Geriatric ED, our team is uniquely equipped to care for seniors when emergencies happen; however, our ultimate goal is to keep you safely at home. Simple, proactive home modifications are the most effective way to prevent severe injuries.”

To keep your home safe this season, consider these simple, proactive steps:

• Light the Way and Clear Floors: Less daylight means indoor lighting is crucial. Add lamps to your living spaces, utilize voice-controlled smart devices, or install touch-activated bedside lights so you never navigate in the dark. Clear your floors of throw rugs, electrical cords, and shoes.
• Safeguard Your Steps: Autumn leaves can make outdoor steps treacherous. Ensure all indoor and outdoor staircases feature sturdy handrails on both sides and use motion-sensor lights to keep landings brightly lit.
• Optimize Kitchens and Bathrooms: Move frequently used kitchen items to lower shelves and use a step stool with a railing or a reacher-grabber tool to avoid overextending. In the bathroom, prevent falls by installing a comfort-height toilet, screw-mounted grab bars, and a slip-resistant shower chair.
• Adjust Bedrooms and Outdoor Chores: Keep a bench in your bedroom to sit on while dressing. When tackling seasonal outdoor chores, ensure your garage has a wide, clear path, and swap out heavy lifting for wheeled garbage and recycling bins.

Take action now so you can confidently avoid falls and enjoy many more autumn seasons to come.

For information about Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center, visit www.hackensackmeridianhealth.org/en/locations/southern-ocean-medical-center or call 844-HMH-WELL.

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(photo: vecteezy.com)