Have you ever tripped in your own living room and thought, "That was a close call!" You’re not alone. Most falls happen at home, often caused by ordinary things you see every day. The good news? A few small changes can make your home much safer without sacrificing comfort.
Here are seven fall hazards you might not expect, along with simple and effective solutions to keep you steady on your feet.
1. Throw Rugs and Area Carpets
Throw rugs may add style to a room, but they are one of the most common tripping hazards. Rugs that slide or curl at the corners can catch your foot at just the wrong moment.
Fix it: Use non-slip pads or double-sided carpet tape to keep rugs in place. If possible, remove them altogether from hallways, kitchens, and other high-traffic areas.
2. Dim or Uneven Lighting
Low lighting or inconsistent brightness between rooms makes it harder for your eyes to adjust quickly. Shadows and glare can cause confusion, especially in the evening or early morning.
Fix it: Replace low-watt bulbs with bright LED lights. Add nightlights to bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms. Install motion-sensor lights for added convenience and visibility.
3. Cluttered Pathways
Items like bags, shoes, newspapers, pet bowls, and cords can become obstacles in daily walkways. You might not notice them until it’s too late.
Fix it: Clear and organize walkways. Store everyday items in baskets or on shelves, and secure loose cords with clips or covers. Keep floors as open and unobstructed as possible.
4. Slippery Floors and Cleaning Products
Some floor cleaners leave a slick surface, especially on tile, laminate, or hardwood. Even a little water or spilled oil in the kitchen can make your floors dangerously slick.
Fix it: Choose non-slip cleaning products and avoid waxes that create a shine. Place rubber-backed mats near sinks and entryways. Always clean up spills immediately.
5. Poorly Arranged or Unstable Furniture
Low tables, footstools, or chairs with wide legs can easily become tripping hazards. Wobbly furniture can shift if you try to steady yourself on it.
Fix it: Rearrange furniture to create wide, clear paths between rooms. Tighten loose screws or bolts. If needed, use furniture pads to prevent sliding on hard floors.
6. Stairs That Lack Contrast or Support
If the edges of your stairs blend together, it's easy to miss a step. Worn carpeting or poor lighting makes it even riskier.
Fix it: Add contrasting tape to stair edges to make each step visible. Install handrails on both sides if possible. Keep stairs free from clutter like laundry baskets or shoes.
7. High Storage Areas
Reaching overhead can throw off your balance. Standing on chairs or tiptoeing can quickly lead to a fall.
Fix it: Store frequently used items between shoulder and waist height. Use a sturdy step stool with side handles for hard-to-reach places. Never climb on chairs, boxes, or unstable surfaces.
Bonus Tips: Three More Hazards You Might Not Expect
8. Low Toilet Seats
Toilets that are too low can strain your knees and make it hard to stand up.
Fix it: Install a raised toilet seat or grab bars for support and easier movement.
9. Fast-Moving Pets
Dogs and cats often get underfoot without warning, especially when excited.
Fix it: Use collars with bells so you can hear them coming. Keep feeding areas and pet beds out of your main walking paths.
10. Slippery Socks or Slippers
Soft soles and loose fits can cause you to slide on hard floors.
Fix it: Wear non-slip socks or shoes with sturdy soles inside the home. Look for footwear designed for balance and support.
Your Home Should Help You Stay Steady, Not Make You Stumble
Many falls happen not because you’re careless, but because the environment isn’t working in your favor. By identifying hidden risks and making a few easy changes, you can feel safer, more confident, and more in control at home.
Learn More
Want to walk through your home with guidance? Join a Fall Prevention or Home Safety class on GetSetUp and discover practical tips, live demonstrations, and friendly support from people just like you.