Preventing Falls at Home

Prevention tips

To help prevent falls and fall-related injuries, follow the tips below. 

Floors

To make floors safer: 

• Put nonskid pads under area rugs.

• Remove small rugs.

• Replace worn floor coverings.

• Tack carpets firmly to each step on carpeted stairs. Put nonskid strips on the edges of uncarpeted stairs.

• Keep floors and stairs free of clutter and cords.

• Keep floors and stairs clear of animal and children's toys

• Arrange furniture so there are clear pathways.

• Clean up any spills right away. Don't walk on wet floors.

Bathrooms

To make bathrooms safer: 

• Install grab bars in the tub or shower.

• Install a raised (elevated) toilet or toilet seat.

• Apply nonskid strips or put a nonskid rubber mat in the tub or shower.

• Sit on a bath chair to bathe.

• Use bathmats with nonskid backing.

Lighting

To improve visibility in your home: 

• Keep a flashlight in each room. Or put a lamp next to the bed within easy reach.

• Put nightlights in the bedrooms, hallways, kitchen, and bathrooms.

• Make sure all stairways have good lighting. There should be a light switch at the bottom and the top of each stairway.

Other changes to make

• Look around to find any safety hazards. Look closely at doorways, walkways, and the driveway. Remove or repair any safety problems that you find.

• Wear shoes that fit well. Never go barefoot or wear socks or slippers with smooth soles.

• See your eye care provider once a year if you wear glasses. This is to be sure the prescription is still right for you.

• Take your time when going up and down stairs; always use handrails. Never carry items in both hands.

• Wear an alert necklace or bracelet if you are already prone to falling.

• Put handrails on both sides of stairs and in walkways for more support. To prevent injury to your wrist or arm, don’t use handrails to pull yourself up.

• Use a "reach stick" to grab hard-to-reach items.

• Install grab bars wherever needed to pull yourself up.

• Arrange items that you use often. This will make them easier to find or reach.

• Keep track of where your pets are so you don't trip over them when you are walking.