5 steps to fall-proof your home
As we age, the chances of a fall increases and the health impacts of even a stumble can be devastating. Make sure your home is fall-safe with this easy five-step guide.
Step 1: Improve lighting
Dim lighting can make changes in the flooring or possible hazards difficult to see. Fall-proof your home by doing a lighting evaluation. Ask yourself: do my ceiling lights offer enough illumination? Do any floor lamps need bulbs preplaced? Pay particular attention to lighting in stairwells and on uneven floor surfaces.
Step 2: Buy baskets
Organise your space to eliminate floor clutter by scattering sorting baskets in messy areas. For example, if your dog always leaves toys scattered at the door keep an open basket nearby and make a habit of clearing mess as you go.
Step 3: Remove carpet runners
Carpet runners are a great way to keep original base carpet clean, but they are also a common trip hazard. Either remove runners and rugs from high traffic areas or take care to secure them to the floor with strong double-sided tape.
Step 4: Apply non-slip strips to steps
Identify high-risk slipping areas of your house, such as stairs or the start of a tiled floor and apply non-slip strips. A rubber grip mat or adhesive see-through strip can make all the difference.
Step 5: Install handrails
Bathrooms can be a common place for falls due to wet and slippery tiles. Installing handrails in the shower or near the toilet is a great way to improve the safety of tiled spaces.
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