A national study looked at older US adults who had vision tests and a home safety check in 2022. The sample included people aged 65 and older who live in the community.
Researchers found many homes had at least one hazard. Nearly half of older adults did not have grab bars in the bathroom. Tripping risks and broken flooring were also reported. The scientists say poor vision together with home hazards greatly increases the chance of falling. They recommend regular eye exams, the right glasses, and simple home fixes like grab bars and clear walking paths.
Difficult words
- hazard — a thing that can cause harm or danger
- grab bar — a strong bar to hold in the bathroomgrab bars
- flooring — the material that covers a floor in a home
- risk — the possibility that something bad will happenrisks
- vision — the ability to see with your eyes
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you had an eye exam recently? Describe it briefly.
- What simple change could make your home safer from falls?
- Do you think grab bars would help older people in your family? Why or why not?
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