​​​​​​Adapting your home will allow you to stay independent and decrease the chance of a fall.

Take Action

• Use safety grab bars in your tub and shower. Do not hold the handle on the soap dish or a towel rack as they can break.
• Use a non-slip mat inside and outside your tub or shower. Replace them if they do not stick.

• Here's what bars beside the toilet could look like:

• Keep a cordless phone or cell phone close to you especially when showering or bathing.
• Keep your toilet paper roll within easy reach.
• Have handrails on both sides of your stairways and check that they are secure. Always turn on the lights. When carrying things, keep one hand free to hold onto the handrail.

• Clear pathways of furniture, cords, and clutter and keep them well lit.
• If it is hard to get out of your chair, put an extra cushion on it or use a chair with armrests. Strengthening your leg muscles can also make it easier to get up. (See Stay Active)
• Remove scatter mats and area rugs or tape down the edges. It is easy to catch your toes on the edge and trip.
• Look out for things that can cause you to trip, such as pets, hoses and rakes, door thresholds and buckled carpet.

You can borrow or buy items like a bath seat for your bathtub or shower, a bar beside your bed, and an emergency medical alert system. An occupational therapist can help you get these and other items.

Resources

• Find an occupational therapist
• Why use a home hazard checklist? (video)
• Use a home hazard checklist
• Preparing Your Home for Winter
• Preventing Falls on Stairs (changing stairs or building stairs)
• Use the handrail, everytime - Safety Minute: Stair Safety (video)

Activity

Can you spot the hazards?

To learn more about your risk of falling complete the “Is there a chance you might fall?” checklist.​