Preventing Falls at Home: Simple Changes to Stay Safe
Falls can happen when we least expect them, but the good news is there’s a lot you can do to lower your risk — starting right at home.
A few small changes can go a long way toward keeping you steady and safe, both indoors and out.
Keep reading to learn what to consider.
Check Your Flooring
The type of flooring in your home plays a big role in fall prevention. Hardwood, tile, and laminate floors can be slippery, especially in socks. Area rugs can bunch up or slide, creating tripping hazards. If you have rugs, secure them with non-slip backing or rug tape. For carpeted areas, check for loose edges that could catch your foot.
Wear the Right Footwear Indoors
Footwear matters — even at home. Slippers should have backs to keep them secure on your feet. Non-skid socks are a great alternative for hardwood or tiled floors, giving you traction without the bulk of shoes. The goal is to avoid slick surfaces that could lead to a fall.
Stay Steady Outdoors
Falls don’t just happen inside the home—especially with Western New York’s snowy winters and rainy springs. When heading out, choose shoes with good tread to handle wet, icy, or uneven conditions. Grippy soles help prevent slips on slick sidewalks and driveways, so you can stay confident and steady on your feet, no matter what the WNY weather brings.
Use Supportive Features Like Railings and Grab Bars
Entryways and stairwells should have secure railings. If you’re stepping into the home from a porch or garage, a sturdy railing gives you something to hold onto. In bathrooms or areas where you may need extra support, grab bars can provide stability.
Light the Way
Good lighting is key, especially in stairwells and hallways. Poor visibility increases the risk of tripping over obstacles. Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms so you can navigate safely in the dark. Well-lit pathways ensure you can see where you’re going at all times.
Clear the Clutter
Shoes, bags, and other items on the floor can quickly become tripping hazards. Entryways and hallways should be free of clutter. Use shoe racks or cubbies to keep walkways clear. The less you have on the floor, the fewer opportunities there are to trip.
Use Assistive Devices—Even at Home
If you use a cane or walker, it’s important to use it indoors too. “Furniture surfing” — using walls, countertops, or furniture for balance — can be risky. Assistive devices provide stable, reliable support designed for your safety. Don’t hesitate to use them wherever you need to, including inside your home.
Small Changes, Big Impact
Fall prevention starts with awareness and small adjustments that fit your daily routine. By making thoughtful changes at home and using supportive tools when you need them, you’re taking important steps toward staying safe, steady, and confident!
Commonly Asked Questions Related to Fall Prevention
What are the most common fall hazards in the home and how can I fix them?
Common fall hazards include loose or slippery flooring, unsecured area rugs, cluttered walkways, and poor lighting. You can reduce risk by securing rugs with non-slip backing, removing tripping obstacles, and adding bright lighting in hallways and stairwells.
Do I need to wear special shoes at home to help prevent falls?
Yes, appropriate footwear matters, even indoors. Choose shoes or slippers with backs and nonslip soles. Non-skid socks are another good option on hardwood or tile floors to provide traction and prevent slips.
How can I make outdoor areas safer in all seasons?
Outdoors, choose shoes with good tread to handle rain, snow, or uneven surfaces, especially in regions with winter weather. Grippy soles help prevent slips on wet or icy sidewalks and driveways.
Are grab bars and railings really worth installing?
Absolutely, secure railings on stairs and entryways give you a stable handhold, and grab bars in bathrooms or other tricky areas greatly improve safety and balance. These features are simple changes that significantly lower fall risk.
What can I do inside my home to help me stay steady every day?
Keep floors clear of clutter, such as shoes and bags; use assistive devices (such as a cane or walker) if needed; and ensure rooms, especially hallways and bathrooms, are well-lit at all times. Small changes like these make everyday movement safer.
Want More Ways to Prevent Falls?
Join our online YMCA Wellness Series class, “Better Balance Starts Here,” on Tuesday, January 27th at 6 PM.
Led by Director of Occupational Therapy, Jill McMasters, OTD OTR/L, and Occupational Therapist, Emily Frey, MS OTR/L, this session dives into techniques and exercises to build strength and stability.