The 7 Most Common Fall Hazards in the Home - and How to Fix Them Today

For many older adults, home is where we feel safest - familiar, comfortable, and full of memories. Yet it’s also where most falls happen. Understanding the common causes of falls in the home is essential for improving safety and preventing injuries.

Research shows that six out of ten falls - or about half of all falls-occur at home, often in the places we move through every day without thinking. Falls can have a significant impact not only on the individual but also on family members, who may experience emotional stress and practical concerns about their loved one's well-being. The fear of falling can also reduce confidence and independence, making it harder to stay active and engaged in daily life. The good news? Most fall hazards in the home are preventable with a few simple changes, and spotting them early can make all the difference to confidence, safety, and independence.

This article will provide examples of common hazards and practical solutions to help you stay safe at home.

Here are the seven most common risks - and practical ways to fix them today.

Assessing Your Home for Fall Hazards

Taking the time to assess your home for fall hazards is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls and protect yourself or your loved ones from serious injury. Since most falls happen right where we feel most comfortable, it’s essential to look at your living space with fresh eyes and identify any potential hazards before accidents occur.

Start by slowly walking through each room and hallway, paying close attention to slip hazards like wet floors, loose mats, and trailing cables. Look for trip hazards such as loose rugs, uneven surfaces, and cluttered walkways - especially in high-traffic areas, on stairs, and in bathrooms, where the risk of falls is highest. Don’t forget to check spots that are often overlooked, like the area beside your bed, around the toilet, or near the shower and bath.

Simple changes can make a big difference. Installing grab rails in the bathroom or by the stairs can provide extra support and balance where you need it most. Placing non slip mats in the kitchen and bathroom helps prevent slips on wet surfaces. Make sure your home is well lit, especially at night, so you can see where you’re walking and avoid hidden hazards.

It’s also important to check that your furniture and equipment are sturdy and secure. Wobbly chairs, unstable tables, or loose rails can quickly become a trip or slip hazard. Keep walkways clear and consider using walking aids if you need extra support to move confidently around your home.

If you’re unsure where to start, an occupational therapist can help you spot risks and suggest practical solutions tailored to your needs. Your local council may also offer advice or support for making your home safer. And remember, staying active is key - regular physical activity helps maintain muscle strength, balance, and coordination, all of which reduce the risk of falls in later life.

By regularly assessing your home and making small adjustments, you can create a safer, more comfortable living space. Prevention is an ongoing process, so keep an eye out for new potential hazards and take action to reduce the risk of falls - helping you stay independent and confident at home.

1. Slippery Floors

Kitchens, bathrooms, and entranceways are the most frequent spots for slips. Water, cleaning products, and even smooth tiles can make the floor treacherous if not kept dry and free of obstacles.

How to fix it:

• Use non-slip mats near sinks, showers, and doorways.

• Wipe up spills from liquids or food immediately.

• If possible, choose textured flooring that provides grip.

• Add grab rails near showers or baths for extra support.

Spills from liquids and food can make the floor especially slippery, particularly around the sink, so it's important to keep these areas clean and dry.

Small improvements like these don’t just reduce fall risk - they boost confidence when moving around your home.

2. Cluttered Walkways

Cables, shoes, magazines, and pet toys can quickly turn a tidy home into a tripping maze. Clutter is a common trip hazard that can easily be overlooked because it feels “normal,” but it’s one of the simplest hazards to eliminate.

How to fix it:

• Keep floors and hallways clear of loose items.

• Use storage baskets or shelves to organise belongings.

• Make sure pathways between frequently used areas are unobstructed.

• Watch out for other things that can become a trip hazard, such as bags, laundry baskets, or small furniture.

A clear space means a clear mind - and more room to move safely. When carrying items, always ensure your path is clear to avoid creating new trip hazards.

3. Poor Lighting

As we age, eyesight naturally changes. Shadows and dim corners can hide steps, rugs, or obstacles that might trip us up.

How to fix it:

• Use bright, warm lighting in all rooms of the home to ensure every area is well-lit and safe.

• Add night lights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms.

• Use motion-sensor lamps for hands-free safety at night.

• Keep curtains open during the day to make the most of natural light.

Lighting upgrades are inexpensive but can dramatically reduce falls and improve overall wellbeing.

4. Unstable Furniture

Furniture that wobbles, tips, or moves unexpectedly can easily cause imbalance. Even sturdy items can be risky if used for support while moving around. Making adjustments to furniture throughout the house can significantly improve safety and reduce the risk of falls.

How to fix it:

• Tighten screws and stabilise loose chairs or tables.

• Rearrange furniture to create wider walkways.

• Avoid using unstable furniture for balance - install rails or support poles where needed.

It’s worth having a friend, carer, or relative walk through your home with you. A second pair of eyes can help spot issues you might not notice.

5. Loose Rugs and Carpets

Rugs are cosy, but they’re also one of the most underestimated fall hazards in the home. Edges that curl or move underfoot can easily catch your feet and cause trips, whether you’re wearing shoes or walking barefoot.

How to fix it:

• Secure rugs with non-slip backing or double-sided grip tape.

• Replace old rugs that no longer stay flat.

• Consider removing smaller mats altogether in high-traffic areas.

If you love the look of rugs, choose ones with rubber backing designed for grip - safer, stylish, and practical.

6. Stairs and Steps

Falls on stairs can be among the most serious, but they’re also among the most preventable. Falling on stairs can lead to severe injuries, making it crucial to address stair safety.

How to fix it:

• Install handrails on both sides of stairs.

• Mark step edges with bright, contrasting tape for better visibility.

• Keep stairways free from clutter.

• Make sure lighting is bright at both the top and bottom of each flight.

If balance or mobility is a concern, talk to a professional about stair adaptations or assisted devices - small investments that protect independence.

7. Lack of Daily Movement

Perhaps the most overlooked hazard isn’t in your home - it’s in your routine.
When we move less, muscles weaken, balance fades, and confidence drops. Sitting for long periods can further weaken muscles and increase your risk of falling. That’s when small risks become big ones.

How to fix it:

• Include gentle exercises in your daily routine - even a few minutes helps.

• Focus on strength and balance training, such as standing heel raises, seated marches, or light stretching.

• Stay active throughout the day by incorporating regular movement and avoiding long periods of inactivity.

• Join a local programme like the EverFit Fall Prevention Course, designed to help older adults move safely, improve coordination, and rebuild strength with expert guidance from coach Georgie Britt.

Movement isn’t just about physical strength - it’s about maintaining freedom and confidence in everyday life.

Taking a Proactive Approach

The earlier we act, the easier it is to prevent falls. Older people are at higher risk for injuries from falls, making early intervention especially important. If you notice a loved one moving more slowly, hesitating on stairs, or avoiding certain parts of their home, those are often the first signs that extra support might help.

Preventative care is about empowerment, not dependency - providing just enough help to keep people strong, steady, and self-assured. Taking proactive steps is crucial for preventing falls, such as removing hazards and seeking medical advice to reduce the risk.

Final Thoughts

Most fall hazards in the home are easy to fix - but only if we know where to look. By making small adjustments today, such as organizing frequently used items within easy reach to avoid unnecessary stretching or climbing, you can reduce risks, protect independence, and bring peace of mind to yourself or your loved ones.

And remember: prevention doesn’t mean restriction. It means giving yourself the strength, balance, and confidence to keep doing the things you love - safely, and for longer. Always be mindful when you carry items around the home, ensuring you handle them carefully to prevent accidents.

✨ Because staying safe at home shouldn’t mean slowing down - it should mean living stronger.