Top 10 Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors in Cedar Falls & Waterloo, Iowa

Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, but many are preventable with simple changes. Whether you live near the scenic Cedar River paths or in a bustling Waterloo neighborhood, these ten practical tips will help you or your loved one stay steady on your feet—and continue enjoying the comforts of home and community.

1. Keep Walkways Clear of Clutter

Obstacles like electrical cords, stacks of magazines, and loose papers can easily trip up seniors.

• Action: Tuck cords against the wall, install cord organizers, and routinely declutter hallways and living areas.

• Local Tip: Pick up an inexpensive cable cover at a Cedar Falls hardware store like Ace to secure loose cables.

2. Remove or Secure Loose Rugs

Rugs with curled edges or slippery backing are common hazards.

• Action: Use non-slip rug pads or tape to anchor area rugs, or remove them altogether in high-traffic zones.

• Local Tip: Waterloo’s HomeGoods and similar retailers carry budget-friendly rug grippers.

3. Improve Lighting Throughout the Home

Dim rooms and dark hallways can obscure obstacles.

• Action: Install brighter bulbs (at least 800 lumens) and add nightlights in hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms.

• Local Tip: Check out Energy-efficient LEDs at Cedar Falls’ hardware outlets—many now offer daylight-tone bulbs that mimic natural light.

4. Install Grab Bars & Handrails

Bathrooms and staircases are prime risk areas.

• Action: Mount grab bars beside toilets and inside showers. Ensure staircases—both inside and outside—have sturdy handrails on both sides.

• Local Tip: The Northeast Iowa Habitat for Humanity ReStore often stocks gently used bars and rails at a discount.

5. Use Non-Slip Mats in Wet Areas

Slippery floors in bathrooms and kitchens can lead to sudden slips.

• Action: Place non-slip mats or adhesive treads in tubs, showers, and near sinks.

• Local Tip: Pick up bathroom safety mats at Walmart in Waterloo that feature suction cups for extra grip.

6. Wear Proper Footwear Indoors and Out

Soft slippers or socks can lack the traction needed on hardwood or tile floors.

• Action: Choose well-fitting, supportive shoes with non-skid soles for both indoor and outdoor wear.

• Local Tip: Visit local shoe stores like Ulbrich’s in Cedar Falls for shoes designed with seniors in mind.

7. Arrange Frequently Used Items Within Easy Reach

Reaching high or bending below waist level can throw off balance.

• Action: Store daily essentials—dishes, spices, toiletries—on shelves between shoulder and waist height.

• Local Tip: If kitchen cabinets are too high, consider a small step stool with a handle, available at Menards in Waterloo.

8. Maintain Regular Vision & Hearing Checks

Sensory impairments contribute significantly to falls.

• Action: Schedule annual eye and hearing exams, update prescriptions promptly, and ensure glasses and hearing aids are worn consistently.

• Local Tip: The Cedar Valley Ophthalmology clinic offers senior discounts on routine eye exams.

9. Incorporate Strength & Balance Exercises

Strong muscles and good balance reduce fall risk.

• Action: Practice simple exercises 3–4 times per week—heel raises, sit-to-stand drills, or tai chi movements.

• Local Tip: Join a senior-friendly balance class at the Cedar Falls Community Center or YWCA Waterloo.

10. Use Assistive Devices as Prescribed

Canes, walkers, and reachers are valuable tools when used correctly.

• Action: Work with a physical therapist to select the right device and learn proper technique.

• Local Tip: The University of Northern Iowa’s wellness center can provide referrals to local PTs specializing in senior mobility.

Beyond the Basics: Routine Home Safety Checks

Perform a quarterly walkthrough of each room—test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, check for loose floorboards, and ensure emergency numbers are posted visibly.

How Maxona Care Can Help

Click the link for our FREE download copy of CDC's Fall Risk Assessment

At Maxona Care, our trained caregivers conduct individualized home safety assessments and implement fall-prevention strategies tailored to your living space. We assist with light housekeeping, mobility support, and exercise supervision—so you can keep enjoying life in Cedar Falls and Waterloo with confidence.

Ready to reduce fall risk and preserve independence?
Contact Maxona Care today at (470) 756-1751 or visit www.maxonacare.com for a free, no-obligation home safety consultation. Let us partner with you to create a safer, more secure living environment—right here in the Cedar Valley.