Falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospital admissions among adults over 65 in the UK — and the majority happen at home, often in familiar spaces where people have stopped noticing the hazards. The good news is that most fall risks can be significantly reduced with relatively simple changes.
The most common hazards
Loose rugs and mats are among the most frequent causes of trips, particularly in hallways and bathrooms. Securing them with non-slip backing or removing them entirely is one of the easiest improvements you can make. Clutter on floors — especially on stairs — is another simple fix that makes an immediate difference.
Lighting matters more than most people realise. Poor lighting at night — on the path to the bathroom, for instance — is a significant fall risk. Plug-in night lights, motion-activated lights and brighter bulbs in key areas are all worth considering. Make sure light switches are easy to reach from the bed.
Bathroom safety
The bathroom is where falls most often happen. Grab rails beside the toilet and in the shower or bath area can dramatically reduce the risk — and modern grab rails are far more aesthetically pleasing than the institutional versions of the past. A non-slip bath mat is a basic but essential addition. If stepping over a high bath rim is a challenge, a bath board or a walk-in shower may be worth discussing with an occupational therapist.
