Most falls at home are caused by a short list of avoidable things. This guide works room by room, then covers the two factors families overlook most often: medication and footwear.
Wet, hard and full of things to grab that were never designed to take weight. Towel rails and basins are the classic culprits.
Check both handrails are secure and run the full length. Mark the top and bottom step with contrasting tape where eyesight is poor, keep the stairs completely clear, and remove loose runners rather than taping them down.
Chair height matters more than most people realise: a low, soft seat is a fall waiting to happen on standing. Raise the bed or chair so hips sit slightly above knees, keep a lamp and phone within reach of the bed, and clear the trailing cables that accumulate around chairs.
Sedatives, blood pressure medication, diuretics and some antidepressants all increase fall risk, particularly in combination. Ask the GP or pharmacist for a medication review — this single step reduces risk more than most home adaptations.
Then look at what is on their feet. Backless slippers are involved in a large share of household falls. Properly fitted, enclosed footwear with a firm sole is a cheap fix.
Carers reduce risk in ways equipment cannot: being present for the highest-risk transfers, keeping fluid intake up, spotting infections early, prompting exercise that maintains strength and balance, and making sure hazards do not creep back into the hallway over time.
They are useful for summoning help but they do not prevent falls. Treat an alarm as a backstop alongside the changes above, not as the solution.
Councils often provide minor adaptations following an occupational therapy assessment. Ask for an OT referral through adult social care or the GP.
Strength and balance work maintains the muscle needed to recover a stumble. A GP or physiotherapist can advise on what is appropriate.
Yes — post-fall confidence loss is one of the most common reasons families first call us. See our hospital discharge support if there was an admission.
Yes. Many packages target only the high-risk moments — morning washing, bathing, and getting to bed. Hourly care starts from £22/hr.
We'll walk the house with you and point out what actually matters — call 01784 740078 for a free visit.
We'll walk the house with you and point out what actually matters — call 01784 740078 for a free visit.
