Make Your Home Safer It's where the majority of accidents happen, so read our guide.

August 19, 2025

It is worth considering how to make your home safer as this is where most falls suffered by the elderly take place and the bathroom is the guiltiest culprit. Hazards within the home are a contributary factor, although personal risk factors have a higher attrition rate.

Personal factors include weak muscles, poor balance, dizziness, blackouts, foot problems, memory issues, medication that makes you drowsy, too much alcohol and some bladder and bowel issues (makes you rush to the toilet).

Here’s our guide to making the home safer so reducing the likelihood of accidents.

Room-by-Room Home & Safety DIY Guide

Hallways

• Non-slip doormat (prevents slips on rainy days).

• Motion-sensor light near entry.

• Bright reflective tape on step edges.

• Wall-mounted hooks for keys and bags (no bending).

• Declutter walkways — keep them wide and clear.

Stairs

• Handrails on both sides of staircase.

• If you use a walking aid and need to use 2 handrails on the stairs, keep a walking aid at the top and bottom

• Non-slip tread strips on each step.

• Walk on the widest part of the stair, especially if the stair is curved. 

• Be aware of patterned carpets on stairs as patterns can play tricks on your eyes and cause you to lose balance.

• If you have to carry items while walking up or down stairs, hold the item in one hand and use the handrail with the other.

• Be sure you can see where your feet are stepping when you’re carrying something.

• Bright tape on stair edges.

• Good overhead lighting — replace dim bulbs and ideally having a light switch at both the top and the bottom of the stairs.

If you are considering a Stairlift then, as we always advise, read reviews such as stairliftsreview although be aware reviewers do earn from recommendations, so seek verification from Trustpilot

Living Room

• Secure rugs with non-slip pads.

• Add sturdy armrests or riser blocks to chairs/sofa (easier to stand).

• Cord management — tape down or use covers for lamp/TV wires.

• Furniture spacing — leave wide, clear pathways with easy access to curtains, plug sockets and cupboards

• Good lighting — swap dim bulbs for bright, warm LEDs.

Kitchen

• Anti-fatigue mat at sink/counter (reduces strain).

• Pull-out shelves or baskets in cabinets (reduces bending).

• Non-slip drawer liners for utensils/dishes.

• Color-coded labels for frequently used spices & containers.

• Step stool with handrail (instead of a chair for reaching high shelves).

• Arrange items that are used regularly so they are within easier reach.

• Keep the kettle near to the sink with cups and tea or coffee beside to save moving around the kitchen too much.

• Use a kitchen trolley or, if you have a walking frame, a caddy, to help transport items.

You may find our article Kitchen Products to Make Life Easier a useful guide.

Bathroom

• Grab bars near toilet, shower, and tub.

• Non-slip mats inside & outside the shower.

• Raised toilet seat (DIY risers or store-bought).

• Shower chair or bench.

• Handheld shower head (easier bathing).

• Anti-scald device on faucets/shower.

• Mop up water spills.

Bedroom

• Bed risers (if bed is too low).

• Nightstand within reach — phone, lamp, glasses, meds.

• Motion-sensor night light near bed.

• Organise the room so you have easy access to your clothes.

• Sit down to get dressed if you’re unsteady on your feet, or get dizzy – especially if you have difficulty with lower garments.

• Declutter floor (no shoes/clothes scattered).

• Easy-to-grab blanket/comforter (avoid heavy ones).

Laundry & Utility Room

• Elevate washer/dryer with riser stands.

• Rolling laundry basket (instead of carrying heavy loads).

• Wall hooks for tools — keeps floor clear.

• Bright task lighting above machines.

Deciding what to do

Go from room to room and decide what changes you can do yourself and what changes you need extra help with. If you need help to check each room, ask a friend, relative or neighbour to have a look with you.

Help and support

Occupational therapists assist people of all ages in overcoming disabilities resulting from illness, ageing, or injury. They can help you modify your home for better safety and wellbeing. For local services, contact your social work department.