Environmental Suggestions
Sometimes simple environmental changes such as wearing suitable footwear, removing mats, changing the lighting, reducing the amount of clutter or highlighting steps and door entries can reduce the risk of falling. Familiarity is important, so only change what really needs changing.
Lighting - low light levels, shadows and glare can make it difficult for someone to find their way or recognise trip and fall hazards. Please refer to the Lighting help sheet for further information.
Furniture - the height and design of furniture are important. Are there arm rests to push up from? How firm is the seat or mattress? How deep is the seat? These factors can make a difference to how a person can safely manage moving from sitting down to standing up and vice versa.
Rails - a properly installed grab rail (not a towel rail) beside the toilet, bath or in the shower recess can provide a stable support surface to assist with transfers. Hand rails on stairs can also assist with independence.
Everyday items that are in regular use should be within easy reach to prevent over reaching.