Creating a fall‑proof home: 10 safety checks you can do this weekend

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults—and most of them happen at home. But here’s the good news: many falls can be prevented with a few simple changes. By taking some time this weekend to walk through your (or your loved one’s) living space, you can drastically reduce the risk.Here’s a quick checklist of 10 easy safety checks that can help make your home more fall-proof—and a lot more senior-friendly.Tame Those Tricky RugsLoose rugs are a major trip hazard. Check every rug in the home—especially in walkways and near entrances. Either remove them, secure them with non-slip backing, or tape down the edges.Pro Tip: If it curls, rolls, or moves—it needs fixing or tossing.Improve Lighting in All RoomsDim lighting can hide tripping hazards.

Make sure all bulbs are working and install bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs in hallways, bedrooms, and staircases. Add night lights in bathrooms and corridors for late-night safety.Extra tip: Use motion-sensor lights near doorways and bathrooms.Clear the ClutterStacks of newspapers, loose wires, or misplaced shoes can easily cause a fall. Walk through high-traffic areas and clear away any obstacles. Keep walking paths wide and clean.

Weekend Win: Dedicate 30 minutes to declutter common spaces.Fix Uneven Flooring or ThresholdsTransition strips between rooms, raised tiles, or uneven wooden floors can be dangerous. Add a small ramp, level thresholds, or cover uneven surfaces with rubber mats. DIY Tip: Rubber threshold ramps are affordable and easy to install.Secure Handrails on All StairsCheck that handrails on both sides of stairs are sturdy and easy to grip.

If there are none, consider installing them—it’s a small upgrade with a huge safety return. Bonus Check: Install glow-in-the-dark strips on stair edges.Rearrange Furniture for Easy MovementTight spaces and sharp corners are risky. Rearrange furniture to create wide, clear paths for walking and turning, especially if using a walker or cane.Helpful Tip: Aim for at least 3 feet of space for easy movement.Add Grab Bars in BathroomsThe bathroom is a common spot for slips.

Install grab bars near toilets and inside/outside showers. Use non-slip mats inside the shower or tub and on the bathroom floor.Quick Fix: Suction-based grab bars work well for renters too.Check Footwear and SlippersWorn-out slippers or socks without grip increase the fall risk. Ensure daily footwear has non-slip soles and a secure fit.Smart Swap: Consider orthopedic shoes with anti-skid soles.Keep Essentials Within ReachAvoid the need to climb or stretch for items.

Place everyday things like phones, medication, utensils, and towels within arm’s reach. Tip: Keep a cordless phone or mobile nearby at all times.Test Emergency Response ToolsIf a fall does occur, quick help is crucial. Make sure emergency alert systems, fall detectors, or medical ID wearables are working. Update emergency contacts in mobile devices.Peace of Mind: Test alarms monthly and discuss fall plans with family.You don’t need a renovation team or a big budget to make a home fall-proof—just a weekend, a checklist, and a little care. These small adjustments can mean the difference between a safe home and a risky one.