Reducing Falls Risk at Home Without Major Changes

Falls are rarely caused by one thing alone. Often, it is a mix of everyday factors, such as:

• Slippery or uneven flooring
• Poor lighting, especially at night
• Clutter in walkways or on stairs
• Footwear that slips or catches
• Rushing to the door, the toilet, or the phone
• Feeling unsteady due to tiredness, dehydration, or changes in health
• Medication side effects, such as dizziness

It can help to think of falls prevention as making routines simpler and the home easier to move around, rather than trying to remove every possible risk.

Clear the “everyday paths”

The routes used most often matter most. A tidy walkway from the bedroom to the bathroom, and from the living room to the kitchen, can reduce the need to sidestep around obstacles.

Consider:

• Moving low tables, magazine racks, or baskets that sit in the way
• Keeping cables tucked back or secured
• Choosing one safe spot for slippers, walking aids, or keys, so nothing ends up on the floor

Make lighting kinder and more reliable

Good lighting supports confidence, especially in winter months or during night-time trips to the bathroom.

Small, low-effort options include:

• Brighter bulbs in key areas such as hallways and stairs
• A bedside lamp that is easy to switch on
• Plug-in night lights in hallways and bathrooms
• Keeping a torch by the bed in case of a power cut

Reduce slipping risks without changing floors

You may not need new flooring to make rooms safer.

Try:

• Removing loose rugs where possible, especially in hallways and near doorways
• If a rug is important, using non-slip backing and making sure the edges lie flat
• Wiping up spills promptly and keeping kitchen floors dry
• Choosing slippers with a supportive fit and a non-slip sole

Keep essentials within comfortable reach

Reaching high shelves or bending low can throw off balance.

A few practical swaps can help:

• Store everyday plates, mugs, and food items at waist height
• Keep frequently used toiletries within easy reach
• Consider a small tray or bag for carrying items safely between rooms

Bathrooms and nighttime trips can feel like the biggest worry for many families.

Small, respectful changes may include:

• Keeping a towel within easy reach before stepping out of the bath or shower
• Using a non-slip bath mat
• Making sure the bathroom light is easy to turn on
• Leaving a clear, well-lit route to the bathroom at night
• Keeping a glass of water by the bed to reduce unnecessary trips

If someone feels particularly unsure in the bathroom, gentle support from a Care Professional can help keep routines safe and dignified.

Home Instead office name: Home Instead Stockport
Office phone number: 0161 480 0646
Office website URL:https://www.homeinstead.co.uk/stockport-tameside/
Google Business Profile link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/P2AGGfJ4kihqRig47

Areas covered (towns/villages/communities):
Stockport, Bramhall, Cheadle Hulme, Cheadle Heath, Heaton Moor, Woodford, Heald Green, Gatley, Reddish, Heaton Mersey

Postcodes served:
SK8 3, SK4 5, SK7 2, SK8 4, SK1 1, SK8 1, SK8 6, SK1 2, SK8 7, SK1 3, SK1 4, SK3 0, SK2 6, SK3 8, SK4 2, SK8 5, SK4 3, SK5 7, SK3 9, SK2 7, SK5 6, SK8 2, SK4 4, SK4 1, SK7 3, SK7 5, SK5 8, SK6 2, SK7 1, SK12 1

If you are supporting a loved one and you are not sure what would help most, you can speak to the local team. They can talk through day-to-day routines, explain how private care at home works, and help you explore the right level of support for your situation.

If you are looking into private care at home, the most helpful next step is often a simple conversation. You can explore our Private Care at Home page to understand the service, then contact the local office to talk through what support could look like at home, in a way that feels comfortable and respectful.