The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has issued guidance following the news that Hollywood actress Zsa Zsa Gabor fell out of bed and broke her hip.
Among the recommendations is the suggestion to use light sensors to allow automatic illumination at night, rather than requiring switches to be found in the dark.
"Install light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs or try motion-detector lights that turn on automatically," the organisation advises.
Other recommendations include fitting a lamp close to the bed so there is no need to walk around the bedroom in the dark to reach a switch.
While 70 per cent of elderly people's falls occur at home, the academy suggests that this is also the place where simple steps can be taken to reduce the risk.
