Your client, parents, grandparents, neighbour, or friend may not realise that small hazards in and around their home can increase the risk of a slip, trip or fall. Before jumping into any major home modifications, start with a positive and supportive conversation about how simple changes can make their home safe, and where they can find support.
The suite of Stay On Your Feet® home safety resources and tools including a checklist, quiz, Spot The Hazard game and video are designed to help older adults identify and remove hazards such as slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways which can contribute to a fall.
Ask about areas in their home and discuss if they are a potential hazard
Here are a few questions to guide your conversation about home safety and identify any potential hazards that can be removed.
Hallways and living area
- Are pathways clear of clutter and furniture? If they use a walking aid, encourage them to clear and widen their pathways and hallways to move safely.
- Is there enough lighting? All rooms, passageways, stairwells and entrances in the home should be fitted with globes of at least 75 watts.
- Are mats, carpets and rugs secured to the floor? Torn carpet, mats without non-slip backing, polished floors and tiles can cause slips and trips.
Bathroom
- Are the bath mats and floor non-slip? Encourage the use of slip resistant treatments on the base of baths or showers and non-slip bath mats.
Bedroom
- Is a lamp or light switch and important items such as phones, glasses and medication easily reachable from the bed? Sensor lights can be used to avoid keeping lights on and purchased from Bunnings.
- Is the bed at a comfortable height for getting in and out?
Kitchen
- Are spills cleaned up immediately? Clean up spills straight away and take extra care in wet areas.
Outdoor areas
- Are garden tools stored away safely after every use?
- Are pathways uneven or are trees/plants overgrown? Encourage them to remove overgrown plants, pot plants, damaged pavers and slip hazards from walkways.
Stay On Your Feet® home safety resources
Find more information, budget friendly tips and interactive games to make the home safer- explore the resources below.
Who can help
Occupational Therapists (OT’s) can do a home assessment and recommend any changes. Occupational Therapy Australia can help you find a private practice OT in your area.
Organisations such as Independent Living Assessment have OTs who provide home modification and assistive technology support services which you can find on our eDirectory.