Preventing Falls at Home: Safety Tips for Seniors
Falls are one of the most common and serious risks facing older Australians living at home. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, falls are the leading cause of injury-related hospitalisations among seniors. While ageing at home offers independence and familiarity, it’s critical to ensure the environment is safe and suited to a person’s changing needs.
At Circle Home Care, we help older people live safely and confidently at home. Below, we’ve outlined practical aged care safety tips for seniors and families focused on fall prevention and home safety for the elderly.
1. Clear Walkways and Declutter
Keep common areas tidy and remove trip hazards such as:
Loose rugs or mats
Power cords
Footstools, clutter, or low-lying furniture
Ensure walking paths are wide enough for mobility aids and regularly used routes (bedroom to bathroom, kitchen to dining) are unobstructed.
2. Improve Lighting
Good lighting helps prevent trips and missteps—especially during the night.
Tips include:
Install sensor lights or night lights in hallways and bathrooms
Use bright LED globes in stairways and entry points
Ensure light switches are easily reachable at room entrances
3. Install Grab Rails and Use Non-Slip Surfaces
Bathrooms and laundries are high-risk areas due to water and hard flooring.
Simple modifications include:
Grab rails in showers and next to toilets
Non-slip strips on tiles
Shower chairs or handheld shower heads
Raised toilet seats where needed
At Circle, we can recommend trusted partners who can assist with Home Modifications across Stonnington, Bayside and Port Phillip councils.
4. Wear Safe Footwear
Proper footwear is essential for stability:
Avoid slippers or socks on smooth floors
Choose shoes with firm soles, closed heels, and non-slip treads
Avoid sandals or thongs inside the home
5. Strength and Balance Exercises
Maintaining strength and balance is key to reducing fall risk.
Encourage:
Gentle resistance or chair-based exercises
Tai Chi or yoga
Walking with or without aids under supervision
In-home physiotherapy or personal training for seniors
Exercise not only improves mobility—it also boosts confidence and supports mental wellbeing.
At Circle we have partnered with well-experienced Personal Trainers who know how to support your needs in developing strength and physical exercises. They service suburbs such as Toorak, Malvern, South Yarra, Brighton, Kew, Albert Park and South Melbourne.
6. Review Medications and Health
Some medications may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Older adults should:
Regularly review medications with a GP
Monitor blood pressure and hydration
Have routine eye and hearing tests
Speak up if they feel unsteady or have had a previous fall
Make a Home Safety Assessment Part of Your Care Plan
Many falls are preventable with the right planning. A home safety assessment, conducted by an aged care professional or occupational therapist, can identify risks and recommend modifications. It’s a proactive way to safeguard independence while aligning with aged care quality standards.
Care That Comes to You—Wherever You Call Home
At Circle Home Care, we deliver person-centred support that allows older people to live safely, confidently, and comfortably in their own homes. Our services include:
Fall prevention planning
In-home safety checks
Strength and mobility programs
Personal care and home modifications
We proudly support clients across Melbourne’s Bayside, Port Phillip, and Stonnington regions.
Need Help Making Your Home Safer?
Whether you're self-funded or receiving a Home Care Package, Circle Home Care can help you or your loved one stay secure at home.
📍 Serving Brighton, St Kilda, South Yarra, and surrounding areas.
➡️ Contact us today to book a free in-home safety consultation.
☎️ (03) 9829 9111