Your life is full of activities. From golfing with your friends, to shopping and eating out and keeping up with your grandchildren, you don't have time for a broken bone to slow you down. You want to age gracefully and steer clear of needless injuries that would put a crimp in your lifestyle. Normally, you wouldn't think of stairways, throw rugs, toilets and freshly waxed floors as dangerous. However, for people over 50, these items often contribute to falls in the home. 

  In fact, according to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, 60 percent of deadly falls among those 65 or older occur in the home. Fortunately, aging adults can help reduce the risk of falls by practicing two general preventive measures: exercise and home safety.

  As we age, we lose muscle strength, which negatively affects our balance, and what we once considered minor obstacles in the home can become major challenges. Therefore, aging adults should focus on exercises that build strength and balance.

  Exercises that build strength can help improve balance and make maneuvering around the home easier. These exercises involve lifting weights, which also strengthens bones. As bones become stronger, the risk of fracture decreases. 

  Hand and leg weights are popular among older adults, and exercises involving stretching and meditation have shown promise as balance builders. Remember to talk with your doctor before starting any exercise program.

  A study sponsored by the National Institute on Aging found flooring to be the greatest household hazard. Accordingly, the number one safety tip is to keep pathways clear and well-lit. This includes getting rid of loose or curled rugs and rearranging small objects and electrical cords. Here are some other safety suggestions:

• Make sure stairways and bathrooms have sturdy handrails and nonskid surfaces.
• Make sure toilets are not wobbly or too low.
• Avoid reaching or bending to retrieve items and make sure step stools have handrails.
• Make sure light switches are easy to find. For stairways, install switches at the top and bottom.
• Clean spills immediately and don't use floor wax.
• When wearing bifocal glasses, be extra careful going down stairs and negotiating a tricky pathway.
• Make sure shoes fit well and have good traction.
• Make sure the bed is not too far from the floor. Before getting out of bed, sit up for a while and make sure any dizziness subsides.
• Go to the eye doctor regularly. The better your vision, the less likely you are to fall.
• Consult your doctor about reducing the side effects of your medications. Some medications can cause dizziness, and the more medications you take, the higher your risk of falling. 
• Avoid the use of alcohol and psychotropic drugs. The mind-altering effects of drugs are more pronounced in older adults.