Preventing Falls at Home: A Room-by-Room Checklist for Elderly Parents

A fall can change an older person's life — a broken hip, a long hospital stay, and a loss of confidence that makes them move less and become weaker. Many falls can be prevented with simple changes.

Living room

• Remove loose rugs, or fix them firmly with non-slip backing
• Keep walkways clear of cables, stools and clutter
• Choose a firm chair with arms, at a height where feet rest flat on the floor
• Make sure lighting is bright enough, with switches easy to reach

Bedroom

• Put a night light between the bed and the toilet
• Keep a lamp, phone, glasses and water within reach of the bed
• Check the bed height: sitting on the edge, feet should be flat on the floor
• Consider a commode at night if the toilet is far

Bathroom

• Non-slip mats inside and outside the shower
• Grab rails by the toilet and shower if possible
• A shower chair for anyone unsteady on their feet
• Wipe up water immediately

Kitchen

• Store everyday items between waist and shoulder height
• Avoid climbing on stools or chairs
• Clean up spills straight away

Outside and steps

• Handrails on steps, with edges clearly visible
• Good lighting at the entrance and along paths
• Keep compound paths clear of leaves, mud and puddles in the rainy season

Health checks that reduce falls

• Ask the doctor or pharmacist to review medicines that cause dizziness or drowsiness
• Get eyes tested and glasses updated
• Wear well-fitting, closed shoes with grip — not loose slippers
• Stay active: gentle, regular walking keeps legs strong, as advised by their doctor or physio

If a fall happens

• Don't rush to lift them. Check for pain, injury or confusion
• If they may be hurt, keep them warm and comfortable and call for medical help
• Tell their doctor about any fall — even without injury — because falls can signal other problems

See mobility support and fall prevention.