Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, but many falls happen in places we use every day. The good news is that most home hazards can be identified and corrected before an injury occurs.
By making a few simple changes, you can create a safer home and reduce your risk of falls. Use this room-by-room guide to identify common fall hazards and improve safety throughout your home.
Living Room
The living room is often where people spend the most time, but it can also contain hidden tripping hazards.
Watch For:
- Loose throw rugs
- Electrical cords crossing walkways
- Clutter on floors
- Low coffee tables and footstools
- Poor lighting
- Oxygen tubing running across walking paths
- Children’s toys or pet toys left on the floor
Safety Tips:
- Remove or secure loose rugs.
- Keep walkways clear.
- Arrange furniture to allow easy movement.
- Add lamps or brighter bulbs if areas seem dim.
- Keep oxygen tubing organized and away from primary walking paths.
- Encourage family members to pick up toys after use.
Bedroom
Getting up during the night can increase fall risk, especially when lighting is poor.
Watch For:
- Dark pathways to the bathroom
- Loose bedding dragging onto the floor
- Clutter near the bed
- Low bed height
- Shoes left beside the bed
- Clothing left on the floor
Safety Tips:
- Install night lights between the bed and bathroom.
- Keep a lamp within easy reach.
- Remove clutter, clothing, and shoes from walking areas.
- Ensure your bed height allows both feet to touch the floor comfortably when sitting.
- Keep frequently used items within reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or climbing.
Bathroom
Bathrooms are among the most common locations for serious falls due to wet and slippery surfaces.
Watch For:
- Wet floors
- Slippery tubs and showers
- Lack of grab bars
- Low toilets
- Loose bathroom rugs
Safety Tips:
- Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower.
- Use non-slip bath mats.
- Remove loose throw rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
- Consider a shower chair if balance is limited.
- Improve lighting around sinks, mirrors, and shower areas.
Kitchen
The kitchen can present several fall hazards due to spills, reaching, and frequent movement.
Watch For:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Throw rugs near sinks
- Frequently used items stored on high shelves
- Cluttered countertops
- Open cabinet or dishwasher doors
- Pet food or water bowls on the floor
Safety Tips:
- Clean spills immediately.
- Remove loose rugs or use non-slip backing.
- Store frequently used items at waist-to-shoulder height.
- Keep walkways clear.
- Close cabinet and appliance doors after use.
- Keep pet bowls away from walking paths.
Stairs
Stairs present one of the highest fall risks in the home.
Watch For:
- Missing handrails
- Loose carpeting
- Poor lighting
- Objects stored on steps
- Pets, especially small dogs or cats that may unexpectedly cross your path
Safety Tips:
- Use handrails every time.
- Keep stairs clear.
- Ensure stair lighting is bright and functional.
- Repair loose or damaged flooring promptly.
- Be aware of pets when using stairs.
- Avoid carrying large items that block your view of the steps.
When to Seek Professional Help
You may benefit from a physical therapy evaluation if you:
- Have fallen recently
- Feel unsteady while walking
- Frequently lose your balance
- Avoid activities because you are afraid of falling
- Notice worsening balance, strength, or endurance
Early intervention can help reduce fall risk and improve confidence with daily activities.
How Continuity Healthcare Can Help
At Continuity Healthcare, our licensed physical therapists provide outpatient therapy in the comfort of your home.
We help older adults improve:
- Balance
- Strength
- Walking safety
- Endurance
- Confidence with daily activities
Our goal is to help you remain safe, independent, and active at home.
Concerned about your Fall Risk
Click Start Therapy at Home below to complete form. Questions? Call (913) 318-5104 or email info@continuityhs.com