Setting up the home for walkers, wheelchairs & falls
Creating a safer home is a gradual process—you don't need to do everything at once. Start with the areas where your loved one spends the most time, and move at a pace that feels manageable.
Clear the Pathways
- Remove throw rugs, cords, and clutter from hallways and main walking routes.
- Make sure doorways are wide enough for a walker or wheelchair to pass through comfortably (at least 32 inches for most walkers; 36 inches for wheelchairs).
- Arrange furniture so it doesn't block the path to the bathroom, kitchen, or bedroom. If rearranging isn't possible, a clear walking route around the room is the priority.
- Keep frequently used items at waist to chest height to avoid bending or reaching too far.
Add Grab Support
- Install grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and tub or shower. A contractor or handyman can help ensure they're anchored securely into studs.
- Add a grab bar or sturdy handrail along stairways on both sides if possible.
- Consider a grab bar or rail in the hallway or bedroom if your loved one uses a walker.
- Make sure railings and bars don't wobble—test them before relying on them.
Improve Lighting & Flooring
- Add bright, even lighting in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms; use night lights or motion-sensor lights for nighttime trips.
- Check that stairs and transitions between rooms are well-lit and clearly visible.
- Fix or remove loose tiles, cracked steps, or worn carpet that could catch a wheel or foot.
- Use non-slip mats in the tub or shower, and consider non-slip stair treads if stairs are slippery.
Adapt Daily Spaces
- Raise the toilet seat with a raised seat or grab bar to make sitting and standing easier.
- Keep the phone, remote, and emergency contact numbers within easy reach of the bed and main seating area.
- Ensure the bedroom and main living areas are on the same floor if possible, to reduce stairs.
- Talk with your loved one's doctor if you have concerns about balance or fall risk. A physical therapist can also suggest exercises or equipment tailored to their needs.