By Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, often resulting in reduced independence and prolonged recovery. Thankfully, most falls can be prevented by making practical adjustments in the home. This article outlines key strategies to help reduce fall risks, supporting a safer daily routine for older individuals and their carers.
Prioritise Safety in the Bedroom
The bedroom is a high-risk area, particularly at night, when visibility is low, and mobility may be impaired by drowsiness or illness. Ensuring that the bed is at an appropriate height and easy to get in and out of is essential. Keep essential items like glasses, medication and phones within reach to avoid unnecessary movement.
Incorporating protective tools like fall mats for elderly care and fall prevention can further enhance safety, especially for individuals at higher risk due to frailty, dementia or medical conditions. These mats help absorb impact if a fall occurs, reducing injury and providing peace of mind.
Improve Bathroom Accessibility
Bathrooms are among the most hazardous spaces due to slippery surfaces and limited room to manoeuvre. Installing grab rails beside the toilet, shower and bath offers vital support. Non-slip flooring or mats should replace any smooth, wet-prone surfaces.
Raised toilet seats and shower chairs can also reduce strain during daily routines. Where possible, walk-in showers are safer than bathtubs, removing the need to step over high edges. Ensure towel racks and fixtures are secure and not used as grab points unless designed for that purpose.
Eliminate Trip Hazards in Walkways
Clutter, cords and uneven surfaces are major contributors to falls. Hallways, staircases and doorways should remain clear at all times. Rugs must be secured with non-slip backing or removed entirely if they curl or slide easily. Fix any loose floorboards, thresholds or uneven transitions between rooms.
Electrical cables should never trail across walkways—use cord organisers or move appliances closer to wall sockets. Additionally, avoid placing furniture in pathways, particularly in areas that require turning or frequent movement.
Enhance Lighting and Visual Cues
A study tracking over 7,000 adults aged 65 and older found that those with visual difficulty were more likely to experience recurrent falls, which in turn raised their risk of mortality—highlighting the importance of good lighting at home.
Improving visibility in stairwells, corridors, and bathrooms with LED bulbs and well-placed lamps can help prevent slips and missteps. Motion-activated lights are also especially helpful at night, removing the need to search for switches in the dark.
Promote Strength and Balance Through Movement
Physical inactivity can weaken muscles, joints, and reflexes—key elements needed to prevent a fall. Encourage regular movement that matches ability levels, such as light stretching, balance exercises or supervised walking. Activities like tai chi are especially beneficial for improving coordination.
Appropriate use of walking aids should be reinforced. Canes, walkers or rollators must be properly fitted and maintained. Avoid makeshift support from unstable objects like chairs or tables, which may worsen the risk rather than help.
Safer Homes, Greater Confidence
Preventing falls at home is about taking simple, consistent actions that support mobility, safety and confidence. From managing lighting and flooring to introducing assistive equipment and regular movement, every small step contributes to a more secure environment.
