Many older people want to stay in their own homes. Simple changes can make a home safer and reduce the risk of trips and falls. This guide covers common changes. For personal advice, talk to a doctor or occupational therapist.

Bathrooms

• Grab rails beside the toilet, in the shower and next to the bath give support when standing and sitting. They must be fixed into solid framing or masonry, not just plasterboard.
• Shower seats and non-slip mats can help.
• Easy-to-reach shelves reduce bending and stretching.

Steps and stairs

• Handrails on both sides of steps where possible.
• Firm, even treads with no loose boards.
• Visible step edges, such as contrasting strips.

Trip hazards

• Loose or lifted floorboards and damaged carpet edges.
• Raised door thresholds.
• Loose mats and cables across walkways.
• Uneven paths and slippery outdoor surfaces, which pressure washing can help with.

Doors

• Lever handles are easier to use than knobs.
• Doors that stick or are heavy can be adjusted.

Getting help

An occupational therapist can assess a home and recommend modifications. Some modifications may be funded through aged care or disability programs, so ask your provider. We install rails and make simple changes to the recommendations you give us.

How we can help

See aged care and disability rails and floor and skirting repairs, or get a free quote.