A Safer Spring: Fall Prevention Advice From Home Instead Croydon & Dulwich
Help older adults stay safe at home this spring with fall prevention tips from Home Instead Croydon & Dulwich. A tidy-up today can help avoid accidents tomorrow.<br />
Tidy Home, Safe Home
As spring arrives and we start opening windows, clearing out cupboards, and giving our homes a well-earned refresh, it’s also the perfect time to think about safety, especially for older adults.
Falls are one of the leading causes of injury at home, but many of them can be avoided with a few thoughtful changes. We’re sharing some practical ways to reduce the risk of falls while getting your home ready for the new season.
Simple Home Updates That Make a Difference
A spring clean can do more than just brighten up a space, it can help make it safer and more manageable too. Here are some key safety updates to consider as you go:
– Clear the Floors
Shoes, bags, cables, or folded laundry—any small object left in a walkway can pose a risk. Make sure hallways and doorways are clear and easy to navigate.
– Let There Be Light
Rooms and staircases should be well-lit. Swap dim bulbs for brighter ones, and consider night lights in bathrooms or corridors to reduce risk after dark.
– Reposition or Remove Obstacles
Take a look at the furniture layout. Can you move around freely? Removing trip hazards or shifting bulky pieces can open up much-needed space.
– Take Care While Cleaning
Using chairs to reach high shelves or bending down for too long while scrubbing can cause dizziness or imbalance. Stick to sturdy step stools with handles and use tools that extend your reach.
– Rethink the Bathroom
The bathroom is a common site for slips. Non-slip mats and grab rails offer essential extra support in baths, showers, and next to toilets.
Everyday Habits That Reduce Fall Risk
Keeping the home hazard-free is just part of the equation. Personal well-being has a big impact on balance, coordination, and confidence. Encourage these healthy habits:
Stay Active – Gentle, regular movement like walking, tai chi or light stretching can improve stability.
Hydrate & Eat Well – Dehydration and low blood sugar can cause light-headedness, especially in warmer weather.
Check Vision & Hearing – An unnoticed change in sight or hearing can make it harder to navigate safely.
Review Medications – Talk to a GP about any prescriptions that may cause dizziness, sleepiness, or unsteadiness.
Support That Keeps People Safe
Looking out for older loved ones, friends or neighbours in Croydon and Dulwich can be as simple as offering a helping hand with a spring tidy-up or checking in for a chat about safety at home. It only takes a small effort to prevent a serious fall.
If extra help is needed, Home Instead Croydon & Dulwich is here to support families across the community with care that promotes safety, independence, and confidence at home.
Speak to our friendly team on 0208 033 0014to find out how we can help.