Falls can happen in a matter of seconds, but for an older adult, the effects can last much longer. A loose rug, poor lighting, a slippery bathroom floor, or even an everyday item left in the wrong place can turn into a serious safety concern.
The good news is that many fall risks around the home can be reduced with a few simple changes.
If you have an aging parent or loved one who wants to continue living independently, taking some time to make their home safer can help them feel more comfortable and confident in their daily routine.
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Keep Walkways Clear
One of the easiest ways to prevent falls is to remove clutter from areas where your loved one regularly walks.
Shoes, bags, electrical cords, small furniture, pet toys, and other everyday items can quickly become tripping hazards. Keep hallways, bedrooms, and frequently used pathways as open as possible.
Pay special attention to the route between the bedroom and bathroom, especially if your loved one gets up during the night.
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Remove or Secure Loose Rugs
Area rugs and small mats may look harmless, but they can easily slide, bunch up, or catch someone’s foot.
Consider removing loose rugs altogether. If a rug is necessary, use a secure non-slip backing and make sure the edges lie flat.
Don’t forget to check bathroom and kitchen mats as well.
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Improve Lighting Throughout the Home
Poor lighting can make it difficult to see steps, objects, or changes in floor level.
Make sure hallways, staircases, bathrooms, bedrooms, and entrances are well lit. Replace burned-out bulbs promptly and consider brighter lighting in areas that tend to be dark.
Nightlights can also be helpful in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms.
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Make the Bathroom Safer
Bathrooms can be particularly risky because of wet and slippery surfaces.
Simple improvements can make a big difference. Consider installing grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or bathtub. Use non-slip mats or flooring, and keep frequently used toiletries within easy reach.
A shower chair or handheld showerhead may also make bathing easier for someone who has difficulty standing for long periods.
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Check the Stairs
If your loved one’s home has stairs, make sure handrails are sturdy and easy to reach. Ideally, there should be a secure handrail available for support.
Keep stairs free from clutter and make sure every step is well lit. Loose carpeting or damaged steps should be repaired as soon as possible.
Using contrasting tape or markings on the edge of steps may also help someone who has difficulty seeing changes in depth.
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Keep Everyday Items Within Easy Reach
Reaching too high or bending too low can affect balance.
Move frequently used dishes, clothing, medications, toiletries, and household items to shelves and drawers that are easy to reach.
Older adults should avoid standing on chairs or unstable stools to reach something. If an item is difficult to access safely, it’s better to ask for help.
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Choose Supportive Footwear
Slippers, socks, or shoes with slippery soles can increase the risk of falling.
Encourage your loved one to wear comfortable, properly fitting footwear with good traction, even when they’re at home.
If they prefer slippers, look for a pair with a secure fit and non-slip soles.
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Arrange Furniture With Safety in Mind
Furniture placement can make a home easier—or harder—to navigate.
Create clear, wide pathways between rooms and avoid placing small tables, stools, or decorative items in walking areas.
For someone who uses a cane or walker, make sure there is enough space to move around comfortably without having to squeeze between furniture.
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Make Getting In and Out of Bed Easier
The bedroom is another area worth checking.
Make sure the bed isn’t too high or too low for your loved one. They should be able to sit on the edge of the bed and place their feet securely on the floor.
Keep a lamp, phone, glasses, and other nighttime essentials within easy reach so they don’t have to walk around in the dark.
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Pay Attention to Changes in Mobility
Sometimes the biggest fall risk isn’t the home itself.
If you notice your parent holding onto furniture when walking, struggling to get out of a chair, becoming unsteady on stairs, or avoiding certain activities because they’re afraid of falling, don’t ignore these changes.
It may be a sign that they could benefit from additional support.
A healthcare professional can help assess changes in balance or mobility and recommend appropriate next steps.
Small Changes Can Make Home Feel Safer
Preventing falls doesn’t necessarily mean completely changing your loved one’s home. Often, it’s about noticing the small things that could become a problem and addressing them before an accident happens.
Walk through the home from your loved one’s perspective. Look at the floors, lighting, stairs, bathroom, furniture, and the places they use most often.
And remember, home safety isn’t only about grab bars and non-slip mats. Sometimes having another person nearby can provide valuable reassurance and assistance with everyday activities.
If your loved one wants to remain at home but could use a little extra help, Caregiving Zen can provide in-home support based on your family’s needs—even if it’s just a few hours a day.
A little support can help your loved one continue enjoying the comfort and familiarity of home while giving your family greater peace of mind.
