7 Effective Ways to Reduce the Risk of Falls at Home

Falls are a leading cause of injury among older people, often resulting in fractures, hospital stays, and a loss of confidence in everyday activities. However, many falls can be prevented by making practical changes at home and adopting simple lifestyle adjustments. Whether you're taking steps to make your home safer or supporting a loved one, these seven strategies can help reduce the risk of falls and promote independent living.

1. Remove Trip Hazards

One of the most effective ways to prevent falls is to identify and eliminate trip hazards throughout the home. Everyday items such as loose rugs, trailing wires, and cluttered walkways can become dangerous obstacles. Rugs should be secured with anti-slip mats or double-sided tape to prevent them from shifting underfoot, and any exposed cables should be tidied away or secured against walls. Uneven flooring, loose carpets, and wet surfaces should also be addressed to reduce risks. In kitchens and bathrooms, where floors can become slippery, non-slip mats provide extra safety. A well-organised, clutter-free home creates a more accessible and hazard-free environment.

2. Improve Lighting Throughout the Home

Poor lighting is a major factor in falls, particularly for those with reduced vision. Dimly lit areas make it difficult to see steps, obstacles, or uneven flooring, increasing the likelihood of missteps. To improve safety, ensure all rooms, hallways, and staircases are well-lit with bright, energy-efficient bulbs. Motion-sensor nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms provide automatic illumination during the night, reducing the risk of tripping in the dark. Light switches should be easy to access, ideally located near doorways and within reach of the bed. Keeping curtains and blinds open during the day allows natural light to brighten the home, improving visibility and reducing fall risks.

3. Install Handrails and Grab Bars for Extra Support

For those with mobility or balance issues, extra support can be invaluable. Handrails on both sides of staircases provide essential stability, while grab bars in bathrooms help when getting in and out of the bath or shower. These modifications are particularly important for reducing the risk of slipping on wet surfaces. Additionally, non-slip mats should be placed in the shower and bathtub to prevent falls. If standing for long periods is difficult, a shower seat can provide extra comfort and safety. Simple home adaptations like these can make everyday activities much safer while allowing older people to remain independent.

4. Wear Proper Footwear Indoors and Outdoors

Wearing the right footwear is a key factor in fall prevention. Many falls occur due to ill-fitting, loose, or slippery shoes. Indoors, it is best to wear well-fitted shoes with non-slip soles and good arch support rather than walking in socks or slippers with smooth soles. If slippers are worn, they should have a sturdy, non-skid sole and fit securely. Outdoors, shoes should offer good grip and stability to reduce the risk of slipping, particularly in wet or icy conditions. Proper footwear improves balance and provides better support, reducing the likelihood of falls.

5. Keep Essentials Within Easy Reach

Reaching for objects that are too high or too low can cause loss of balance and increase fall risk. Frequently used items, such as kitchen supplies, medications, and household essentials, should be stored at waist or eye level to minimise bending and stretching. If accessing higher shelves is necessary, a sturdy step stool with a handrail is a much safer option than standing on chairs or unstable furniture. For those with mobility concerns, using a grabber or reacher tool can make retrieving items safer and easier. Small changes in how items are stored can significantly reduce unnecessary movements that might lead to a fall.

6. Stay Active to Maintain Strength and Balance

Regular physical activity is crucial for preventing falls by improving strength, flexibility, and coordination. Engaging in balance-focused exercises, such as chair yoga, Tai Chi, or light strength training, can help maintain stability and mobility. Even gentle activities like walking or stretching contribute to better balance and muscle tone. For those with concerns about stability, working with a physiotherapist or joining an exercise class designed for older adults can provide targeted support. Staying active helps maintain confidence, independence, and the ability to carry out daily activities safely.

7. Get Regular Vision and Hearing Checks

Sensory changes can affect balance, making regular vision and hearing check-ups essential for fall prevention. Poor eyesight can make it harder to see obstacles, while hearing loss can impact spatial awareness, increasing the risk of accidents. Annual eye tests ensure that any prescription glasses or contact lenses are up to date, while regular hearing assessments help detect changes that might affect balance. Those who wear bifocal or progressive lenses should be especially careful on stairs, as these lenses can sometimes alter depth perception. Managing sensory impairments effectively can greatly improve safety at home.

By making these simple but effective changes, older people can significantly reduce the risk of falls and maintain their independence for longer. Falls are not an inevitable part of ageing, and with the right precautions, homes can remain safe and accessible environments for years to come.