Preventing Slip Risks At Home: 10 Tips

Among the biggest causes of hospitalisations among older people are slips, trips and falls, and unfortunately we’re at most risk when we’re at home… so it’s important to do all we can to make sure that any and all trip hazards are dealt with to prevent falls from happening.

More than 50 per cent of falls take place at home, so take a look around your living spaces to see what changes you could make to improve safety standards across the board.

This could include, for example, improving the lighting so you can see where you’re walking more easily, adapting your furniture and furnishings to give you more support and accommodate your evolving needs, and clearing as much clutter from the house as possible.

Arranging your furniture so that you have plenty of space to navigate through the different rooms is a good strategy to employ, as is making sure that any loose rugs and mats are removed so you can’t trip over them. Also look out for carpeting that’s starting to peel back at the edges and fasten them back down.

The most dangerous parts of the house, generally speaking, are the bathroom and kitchen, as this is where water is splashed about most often. Using anti-slip tiles in the bathroom can help, as can making certain adaptations such as installing grab rails and shower seats. If you do spill any water, make sure that it’s cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent slip risks.

It can also be useful to wear the appropriate footwear to help prevent falls, many of which occur because of wearing slippery, loose or ill-fitting shoes. Indoors, go for something that gives you good arch support with non-slip soles, rather than wearing socks or slippers.

By making a few little changes here and there, you can continue living in your home safely for longer as you get older. The key is to be honest with yourself about your changing needs and bring in the appropriate adaptations to mitigate the risks.