Simple ways to reduce the risk of falls at home

Start with the routes used every day

Walk through the home at the same time of day the person normally moves around. Look at the route from bed to bathroom, the chair to the kitchen and the entrance to the street. Notice where the person reaches for furniture, steps around objects or moves through a darker area.

• Keep walkways clear of bags, trailing cables and low furniture.
• Remove loose clutter and secure rugs that move or curl at the edges.
• Keep frequently used items within comfortable reach.
• Make sure stairs and changes in floor level are easy to see.
• Avoid rushing to answer a phone or door; keep a phone within easy reach.

Improve lighting

Good lighting helps people see obstacles and judge steps or floor changes. Replace failed bulbs promptly, use brighter lighting where appropriate and consider a bedside light or motion-activated night light for the route to the bathroom. Keep switches accessible rather than asking someone to cross a dark room.

Choose supportive footwear

The NHS recommends well-fitting footwear in good condition that supports the ankle. Loose slippers, worn soles, backless shoes and walking in socks on smooth floors can make footing less secure. Check that footwear is comfortable and does not create pressure or pain.

Use equipment that is right for the person

Grab rails, non-slip surfaces or a walking aid can be helpful when correctly selected and fitted. Equipment that is the wrong height, in the wrong position or used without instruction may introduce a new risk. Ask an occupational therapist, physiotherapist or appropriate clinician for individual advice rather than buying equipment based only on a photograph.

Keep moving in a suitable way

Regular activity can help maintain strength, balance and confidence. The right activity depends on the person’s health and current ability. The NHS provides examples of strength and balance exercises, but anyone who is unsure what is safe should speak with a GP, physiotherapist or other appropriate health professional first.

Fear of falling can lead someone to move less, which may reduce strength further. Build confidence gradually and avoid pressuring the person into an activity that feels unsafe.

Check vision, hearing and hydration

Regular sight checks can identify changes that affect depth, contrast or obstacles. Hearing problems can also affect awareness and balance for some people. Eating regularly and drinking enough can support general wellbeing; seek medical advice if dizziness, faintness or sudden weakness is present.

Ask for a medicine review when appropriate

Some medicines or combinations of medicines can affect alertness, blood pressure or balance. Do not stop or change prescribed medicine without advice. A GP or pharmacist can review medicines, especially after a fall, new dizziness or a recent prescription change.

After a fall

If someone has fallen, first check for pain, injury or signs that they are unwell. Do not rush them to stand. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency or serious injury. If urgent help is needed but it is not life-threatening, use NHS 111. Follow current NHS guidance and seek an assessment even when there is no obvious injury if falls are recurring or confidence has changed.

Record what happened just before the fall, where it happened and whether there were symptoms such as dizziness. This can help a clinician or care professional consider possible causes and next steps.

Make the review collaborative

A safer home should still feel like the person’s home. Explain suggested changes, ask permission and preserve familiar routines where possible. The most useful solution is one the person understands and will actually use.