Aging Well: Making Your Home Fall-Proof

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Aging Well: Making Your Home Fall-Proof

Getting around your home safely can be a challenge if you have injuries or health problems that make it easy for you to fall. Many health problems can increase your risk of falling—poor eyesight, balance problems caused by disease like stroke or Parkinson's disease, side effects of medicines, weakness or pain in the legs and feet, and confusion or dementia.

For people with these conditions, common things like loose rugs, poor lighting, and household clutter can become a big safety issue. But there are easy things you can do to make your home a lot safer.

Some common hazards in the home might make you more likely to fall. But you can make your home safer with a few simple measures.
Falls can lead to serious injuries. Hitting your head can cause a head injury. A fall can break a bone, resulting in surgery and months of therapy.
Preventing falls can help you live a more independent life.

How can I make my home fall-proof?

Talk with your doctor

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How can I make my home fall-proof?

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You can make some simple changes in your home and in the way you do some daily activities to reduce your risk of falling.

Prevent falls around your home

Remove things that you can trip over, such as raised doorway thresholds, throw rugs, and clutter. Repair loose carpet or raised areas in the floor.
Move furniture and electrical cords out of walking paths.
Use nonskid floor wax, and wipe up spills right away.
If you use a cane, replace the rubber tip when it becomes worn.
Keep your house well lit, especially stairways, porches, and outside walkways. Use night-lights in areas such as hallways and bathrooms. Add extra light switches or use remote switches (such as switches that go on or off when you clap your hands) to make it easier to turn lights on if you have to get up during the night.
Put sturdy handrails on stairways.
If you live in an area that gets snow and ice in the winter, have a family member or friend sprinkle salt or sand on slippery steps and sidewalks.

Reduce the chance of a fall during your daily activities

Store household items on lower shelves so that you do not have to climb or reach high. If you have to climb for something, use a step stool with handrails.
Do not try to carry too many things at the same time. Have a place near your door where you can place packages and groceries while you close the door and get ready to put things away.
Wear low-heeled shoes that fit well and give your feet good support. Use footwear with nonskid soles. Check the heels and soles of your shoes for wear. Repair or replace worn heels or soles.
Do not wear socks without shoes on smooth floors.

Prevent falls in the bathroom

Many falls occur during bathing.

Install grab handles and nonskid mats inside and outside your shower or tub and near the toilet and sinks.
Use shower chairs and bath benches.
Get into a tub or shower by putting the weaker leg in first. Get out of a tub or shower with your strong side first.
Use a long-handled brush or mittens with straps to help with bathing.

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ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAnne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerElizabeth A. Phelan, MD, MS - Geriatric Medicine