How to Prevent Falls at Home: A Guide to Safety and Confidence

At Vivie, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, confident, and supported in their daily life—especially at home. And one of the most powerful ways to protect our health as we age is by reducing the risk of falls.

Falls can lead to serious injuries, but the good news is many of them are preventable. With some simple changes and a bit of extra support, you or your loved one can stay steady and secure through every step of the day.

Create a safer living space

Our homes are full of memories—and sometimes, hidden tripping hazards. Making a few practical updates can go a long way in preventing falls.

Start by clearing clutter and securing loose cords, especially in high-traffic areas. Add nonslip mats under rugs, and nonslip treads to wooden stairs. Make sure commonly used items are within easy reach, so there’s no need to stretch or climb. And if any flooring is damaged or uneven, consider repairing it to create a smoother, safer path.

For added safety, install grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on both sides of stairs. These small supports can provide extra confidence when it’s needed most.

Let there be light

Good lighting isn’t just about comfort—it’s also a key part of fall prevention. Brighten stairways and hallways, and place nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms. Make sure light switches are easy to find, and keep a flashlight nearby in case of outages.

When everything’s clearly visible, it’s easier to stay balanced and on track.

Take care of your whole self

Preventing falls is also about taking care of your body. Staying active—with exercises that improve balance, strength, and flexibility—can make a big difference. Physical therapy can help, too, especially if you’ve experienced a fall in the past.

Don’t forget the importance of health checkups. Vision and hearing changes can affect balance, so regular eye and hearing exams are key. Comfortable, well-fitting shoes with nonslip soles also help keep your footing secure. And always take medications as prescribed, since some can impact coordination or alertness.

At Vivie, we also encourage people to manage chronic conditions and monitor blood pressure. All of these actions help support stability and overall well-being.

You’re not in this alone

Fall prevention isn’t about doing more on your own—it’s about finding the right support. At Vivie, we’re here to walk with you, wherever you are on your journey. From vibrant senior living options to personalized home health care, our services are designed to keep people safe, connected, and thriving.

Because at Vivie, we’re always looking for better ways to care for one another.