Getting from room to room safely helps you stay steady and independent. A few small changes can reduce the risk of trips, slips or losing your balance.
This section offers practical tips to help you stay steady and confident as you move around your home.
Clear Walkways and Clutter-Free Floors
Keep pathways clear: Remove shoes, bags, boxes or anything left on the floor that could be tripped over.
Tidy as you go: Try to avoid leaving items on stairs, in doorways, or along routes you use often.
Use storage: Baskets, shelves or small trolleys can help keep essentials within reach but out of the way.
Consider grabbers or reachers: These can help reduce bending or overreaching when picking things up.
Safe Flooring and Carpets
Check for loose mats or rugs: These are a common cause of falls. Use non-slip backing or remove them altogether.
Look for curled edges: Tape down any worn carpet or flooring that lifts at the edges.
Choose non-slip surfaces: If you’re thinking of replacing flooring, look for materials that provide grip underfoot.
Steps and Stairs
Use a handrail: Always hold onto a secure handrail when using stairs. Consider adding a second rail if needed.
Improve visibility: Make sure stairs and landings are well-lit. Use two-way switches so lights can be controlled at both ends.
Mark edges: Use contrasting tape or stair edging to highlight step edges, especially if your vision is changing.
Don’t rush: Always take your time, especially if carrying items. Never carry too much at once.
Lighting and Visibility
Brighten up: Use good overhead lighting and plug-in night lights in hallways and bedrooms.
Use motion sensors: Automatic lights are helpful if you get up in the night or return home after dark.
Match lighting levels: Sudden changes from bright to dim lighting can affect vision and balance. Keep lighting consistent across spaces.
Furniture and Layout
Create clear routes: Rearrange furniture if needed to avoid tight spaces or awkward corners.
Avoid unstable furniture: Don’t use lightweight chairs, tables or radiators for support — they may tip over.
Keep things close: Store frequently used items at waist height to avoid too much bending or stretching.
Other Tips
Wear well-fitting footwear indoors: Avoid loose slippers or socks on slippery floors.
Use mobility aids correctly: If you've been given a stick or frame, make sure it's the right height and used as advised.
Stay active: Regular movement, even gentle exercises, can help maintain your balance and confidence around the home.
Calling for Assistance
If you ever fall or need help, it’s important to have a simple way to call for assistance - especially if you live alone. Keeping a mobile phone close by or having a landline phone within reach can make a big difference. You might also want to think about using a personal alarm, such as a pendant or wrist-worn device, so you can get help quickly if you can’t get to a phone.
If you're unsure what's right for you, local social care services or home adaptation teams can help you find safe, reliable options.
These contacts can help you make your home safer and reduce the risk of falls. From home safety checks to equipment advice, you’ll find support to help you stay confident and independent at home.
Find local and national services that can offer advice, support, and practical help. Whether you’re looking for someone to speak to, equipment for your home, or help finding the right activity, this section brings useful contacts together in one place.
Use our online self-assessment tool to create your personal falls prevention Action Plan full of useful actions, advice and support to help reduce your risk of falls.
Anyone can have a fall, but it is more likely if you are older or have mobility issues. Making changes to prevent falls can help you avoid injuries and maintain your confidence and independence. Find out more on the NHS website.
As we get older, lots of us may start to feel a bit unsteady on our feet and become worried about falling. The good news is there are lots of things you can do to stay steady on your feet and prevent falls.
We include external links to other organisations and partners to provide you with additional information and support. These websites are managed by their own organisations, and Steady On Your Feet isn't responsible for their content or accessibility.
We carefully select links from reliable sources, but always check that any information or advice suits your own circumstances.
For more details, visit our External Links and Content page.
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