Eliminate fall hazards in the home

January 16, 2026

7 minutes reading time

With increasing age, the risk of falling in your own home increases. Things that used to be no problem can suddenly become dangerous. Loose carpets, poor lighting, or slippery floors in the bathroom are among the most common causes of accidents. However, many fall hazards in the home can be eliminated with simple measures. This guide shows which areas are particularly critical and how you can make your home safer.

Why falls are more common in old age

Falls are one of the most common causes of accidents among older people. There are many reasons for this, and they are often related to natural changes in the body. Understanding these connections can help to take targeted preventive measures.

Physical changes in old age

Over the years, the body changes in various ways. Muscle strength decreases, balance becomes less stable, and reaction times slow down. Many people also experience a decline in vision, which makes it more difficult to recognize obstacles. Together, these factors can mean that even small bumps or objects on the floor become trip hazards.

In addition, the balance organ in the inner ear plays an important role in body stability. Age-related changes in the ear can therefore also affect balance. People with hearing problems should be particularly careful, as studies suggest a link between hearing loss and an increased risk of falling.

Medications and their effects

Certain medications can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fatigue. Taking multiple medications at the same time can increase the risk of side effects that affect balance. It may be helpful to have an open discussion with your doctor about possible interactions and side effects that could cause falls.

Identify the biggest tripping hazards in the home

Many fall hazards are right on your doorstep, or more precisely, within your own four walls. Taking a critical look around your home can help you identify potential hazards.

Carpets and runners

Loose carpets, raised edges, and slippery rugs are a classic hazard. Secure them with non-slip underlays.

Cables & Objects

Loose charging cables, extension cords, and objects in walkways must be avoided.

Door thresholds & edges

High door thresholds and uneven floors. Remove them if possible or replace them with flat transitions.

Lighting as a safety factor

Good lighting is one of the most important factors when it comes to eliminating the risk of falls in the home. If you can see your surroundings clearly, you can spot obstacles in good time.

Sufficient light in all rooms

Every room should have sufficient bright lighting. Dark corners and poorly lit areas increase the risk of accidents. Good lighting is particularly important in hallways, on stairs, and in passageways. Ceiling lights with high light output and additional floor lamps can help to illuminate all areas evenly.

Night lights and motion detectors

The risk of falling is particularly high at night, for example when going to the bathroom. Night lights that illuminate the way can be invaluable in this regard. Motion detectors that automatically switch on the light as soon as someone enters the room are even more practical. These can now be easily retrofitted and are often battery-operated.

Light switches in the right places

Light switches should be easily accessible, ideally right at the entrance to each room. Anyone who has to search for a switch in the dark risks falling. Illuminated switches or glow-in-the-dark stickers can make it easier to find them in the dark.

Making the bathroom safe

The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home in terms of falls. Wet tiles, confined spaces, and getting in and out of the shower or bathtub pose considerable risks.

Non-slip pads and mats

Non-slip mats in the shower, bathtub, and in front of the sink are basic safety measures. These mats should adhere firmly to the floor with suction cups. Non-slip mats on the bathroom floor itself can also help prevent slips on wet tiles.

Handrails and support devices

Grab bars on the bathtub, shower, and next to the toilet provide support when sitting down and standing up. They should be firmly anchored to the wall and able to support your body weight. Various models are available from specialist retailers and can also be retrofitted.

Shower seat and bathtub lift

A shower seat allows you to sit down while showering, significantly reducing the risk of falling. For bathtub users, a bathtub lift can make getting in and out easier. These aids are particularly useful for people with limited mobility or balance problems.

Stairs, furniture, and the right footwear

Secure stairs and steps

Stairs should be equipped with sturdy handrails on both sides. Contrasting strips on the edges of the steps make them easier to see. Non-slip coverings prevent slipping. If climbing stairs becomes too dangerous, a stair lift can be a safe alternative.

Rethinking furniture and furnishings

Furniture should be placed in such a way that there is sufficient space to walk around. Sturdy chairs and armchairs with armrests make it easier to stand up. A TV chair with a stand-up aid can be a comfortable solution. Frequently used items should be stored at a height that is easy to reach.

The right footwear in the home

Socks on smooth floors are a common cause of falls. Slippers with non-slip and sturdy soles offer significantly more grip. It is important that the shoes fit well. Open slippers without heel straps should be avoided as they can easily slip off the feet.

Aids and active prevention

Aids for greater mobility and safety

Various aids can help you move around your home more safely. A walking stick or rollator can provide additional stability. Hip protectors can reduce the risk of hip fractures in the event of a fall. A home emergency call system, worn as a bracelet or necklace, can be lifesaving in an emergency.

Prevention through exercise and training

In addition to adapting the living environment, physical fitness also plays an important role. Regular exercise can strengthen muscles and improve balance. Simple exercises such as standing on one leg or targeted strength training for the legs and torso are very effective. Since both vision and hearing are important for orientation, both senses should be checked regularly. Up-to-date glasses and, if necessary, aids for the hearing impaired contribute to safety.

Checklist for a fall-proof home

area	sources of danger	measures
entrance area	Slippery mats, poor lighting, shoes lying around	Non-slip mats, good lighting, designated places for shoes
living spaces	Loose cables, slippery carpets, dark corners, wobbly furniture	Secure cables, fix carpets, ensure sufficient lighting, stable furniture
kitchen	Slippery floors, spilled liquids, hard-to-reach cabinets	Non-slip flooring, wipe up liquids immediately, store important utensils within easy reach
bathroom	Wet tiles, high step into shower/bathtub, no support when standing up	Non-slip mats, grab bars, shower seat, or bathtub lift
Bedroom / Night paths	Darkness on the way to the toilet, tripping hazards by the bed	Install night lights or motion detectors, keep paths clear
Stairs / Steps	Missing handrails, poorly visible step edges, slippery surfaces	Install handrails on both sides, mark steps, apply anti-slip strips

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