Everyone's home is different, so it pays to be aware of your surroundings and things that could make your home unsafe.
Reducing the risk of falls
Keeping yourself safe when you move around your home is important. We cover several areas of safety at home on this site.
More information is included in our booklet ACC2383 Standing up to falls (PDF 589K). You can download a copy here, or order it through our Publications page.
Some suggestions for you to think about are included here.
Gardening and maintenance
Avoid lifting heavy bags of weeds and compost, or tugging at stubborn weeds.
Stand straight or kneel. Avoid bending by choosing long-handled and lightweight tools and using raised beds or planters.
Ask someone else to do routine home maintenance, if you need help.
Don't try to move heavy furniture yourself, or to open a window or door that is heavy or stuck.
Get help to reach or to do work that is above your head. If that isn’t possible, be sure to use a sturdy step stool rather than standing on a wobbly chair. Likewise, steady yourself when bending down by holding onto something secure.
Bathrooms
Avoid slipping or falling by:
- using non-slip mats in the shower and bath
- having solid grab bars or handrails installed in toilet, bath and shower areas
- using a bath seat and hand-held unit in the shower.
When putting on make-up, shaving, or brushing your hair, use a mirror that can be pulled out towards you.
Lighting
Light switches that can be reached easily without getting out of bed are a good idea, or keep a torch by the bed for night use. Check the batteries often.
Keep lights on in any area you may need to walk to at night. Think about installing night lights in areas like the bathroom and hallway if you regularly get up in the night.
Floors and steps
- Remove or firmly anchor rugs, as they may slide or bunch up and cause you to fall.
- Keep clutter and cords out of your way.
- Always use the hand rail on stairways and steps – have these installed if they are not already.
- Watch out for pets or other objects that may cause you to trip or fall.
- Wear low-heeled, supportive and secure shoes with rubber soles.
Bedrooms
Sit down to get dressed, and bring your foot up across the opposite knee when you are putting on shoes.
Take your time getting up from lying down. Roll onto your side, sit up slowly on the side of your bed, then stand slowly. Move away only when you have your balance.
Bend from the hips and knees when you make your bed. Pull on one layer of bedding at a time to avoid back strain, and tuck covers in while kneeling.
Kitchens
- Store frequently used items between eye level and hip height so you don’t have to bend down or reach overhead. Use a step-ladder or hand reacher if you do need to get things from high places.
- When moving dishes in and out of the oven or dishwasher, sit or stand at the side, rather than leaning forward over the door.
Being prepared in case you have a fall
Even when you are safety aware, accidents can happen and you may find yourself on the ground after a fall. Here are some ideas for planning ahead, and steps to help get you upright again.
Make a plan
Think about how you might be able to get help quickly if you do fall. For example:
- have your telephone within easy reach, even if you’re on the floor
- leave a spare key in a secure place outside, or with someone you trust
- get a personal medical alarm.
Discuss your plans with friends, family, or neighbours.
If you fall
- Stay calm and assess your situation.
- Decide whether you’ll try to get up.
- If you can get up, use something sturdy to support yourself.
- Get medical help if you need it, and tell your doctor about the fall.
- If you can’t get up, try to get to the phone or call out to attract attention, and make yourself as comfortable as possible until help arrives.
Last updated: 12 July 2010