Did you know that 1/3 of Americans over 65 fall each year? Falls are the leading cause of injury death in adults over 65. Here are some myths about falling:Myth 1: If I stay seated all the time, I reduce my risk of falling.Truth: Inactivity may lead to muscle and joint weakness, which increases your risk of falling. Myth 2: My medications do not increase my risk of falling. Truth: Taking any medication may increase your risk of falling. That risk is only increased when you are taking more than one at the same time. Be careful with medications—especially when you are given a mew medication—until you know how it may affect your body. Myth 3: An assistive device, such as a walker or wheelchair, will make me more dependent.Truth: An assistive device may actually increase your independence, allowing you to be more active and still do the things that you enjoy.Myth 4: I am safe from falls in my own home.Truth: While you may be at reduced risk in your own home, things like clutter around your feet, electric cords that are unsecured and loose carpeting or rugs may increase your risk of falling…event in your own home. What can I do to make my home safer?In the bathroom, installing grab rails, using non-skid rugs and bath mats. Also a hand-held shower extension will help.In the bedroom, use a night light. Having bed rails and a bedside commode or urinal can help, too.In the kitchen, a non-skid flooring will help. Use lower cabinet and storage space as much as you can. Use a step-ladder with safety rails for reaching high.In the living room, make sure you have a clear walking path. Tape down loose cords. Raise the height of furniture for easy sitting and standing. For doorways and stairs, use reflective tape for stairways and secure flooring in doorways with thresholds. For more tips on home modifications to reduce the risk of falling, go to http://fcs.tamu.edu/families/aging/fall_prevention.