A recent University of Michigan study found that vision problems combined with unsafe living environments sharply increase the risk of falls among older adults. That finding is especially important for RVers, where tight spaces, steps and uneven surfaces are part of daily life.
Researchers discovered that declining vision alone wasn’t the biggest problem. The real danger came when poor eyesight was paired with hazards such as uneven flooring, cluttered walkways, poor lighting, or a lack of handholds. When those conditions existed, fall risk rose significantly.
For RVers, this matters because RVs, whether motorized or towables, naturally include features that can become hazards over time: interior steps, slide-out transitions, narrow aisles, bathroom thresholds, and entry stairs. Once outside, uneven, unfamiliar terrain and obstacles such as exposed roots from trees can easily trip up someone not paying close attention.
As vision changes with age, these features can be harder to see clearly—especially at night or in dim, unfamiliar campgrounds.
The study also showed that small improvements in the living environment can make a big difference. Better lighting, secure grab bars, and clear walkways can sharply reduce fall risk, even for people with declining vision.
What RVers can do
• Improve lighting inside the RV, especially near steps and bathrooms.
• Add grab bars at entry doors and in the shower.
• Remove loose rugs and keep walkways clear.
• Be extra aware of surroundings when spending time outside the RV.
Falls are a leading cause of injury and loss of independence among older adults. Of the more than 3 million older adults treated each year in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries, one in five result in serious harm. In 2023, an estimated 30,000 to 41,000 people died in the United States from falls, making falls the leading cause of injury death for persons aged 65 and older.
By making a few practical adjustments to their RVs, travelers can stay safer, remain mobile, and continue enjoying life on the road longer. The same goes for when they are living in a traditional home, of course.
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