Fall Prevention Starts at Home: Simple Changes That Make a Big Difference

Written by Janet Helm, Realtor® and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) 

During my seminars, Empowering Seniors I share a truth that catches people off guard: the majority of falls happen at home. Not out in the world, not while travelling — but in the very place we should feel safest.

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), I work closely with older adults and their families to ensure the homes we live in support both our safety and our independence. While home modifications can sound complicated or expensive, the reality is that many fall-prevention strategies are simple, affordable, and immediately effective.

Below are practical changes that can help reduce your risk of falling — most of which can be done in a weekend.

Safer Stairs and Walkways

• Keep stairs, walkways, and outdoor steps in good repair and free from clutter.

• Install sturdy handrails on both sides of all staircases and outdoor steps.

• Ensure stairways are well-lit, with switches at the top and bottom.

• Add nightlights to outlets in hallways and bathrooms to keep areas bright during the evening.

• Apply a non-skid surface to outdoor steps to prevent slipping, especially in wet or icy conditions.

Smarter Bathroom Design

• Use a bath seat to shower or bathe while seated.

• Install a raised toilet seat for easier transitions.

• Add grab bars near the toilet, bathtub, and inside the shower.

• Wipe up any spills immediately to avoid slippery surfaces.

• Replace loose or bunched rugs with non-slip mats in the bathroom and hallway.

A More Accessible Layout

• Keep daily-use items within easy reach to reduce the need for climbing or stretching.

• Store heavier items in lower cupboards to prevent injury.

• Remove any rugs that shift or slide — even decorative ones — and replace them with non-slip options.

The Bigger Picture: Dignity and Independence

These changes don’t require a full renovation or major investment. Yet together, they help create a safer home — one that supports confidence, dignity, and continued independence. That matters not just to older adults, but to their loved ones too.

If you're considering how to age in place successfully or want to explore housing options that better suit your changing needs, I’d love to be a resource. These are conversations worth having before a crisis forces the issue. When we plan ahead, we open the door to more choice — and more peace of mind. 

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