Fall Prevention at Home: A Room-by-Room Checklist for Caregivers

Falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults over 65 globally. In India, hip fractures from falls carry a one-year mortality rate of up to 30% in seniors. The good news: most falls are preventable.

This checklist takes 30 minutes to complete and covers the four highest-risk areas in a typical Indian home.

Bathroom (highest risk)

• Non-slip mat inside the shower and on the bathroom floor
• Grab bar installed next to the toilet (not a towel rail — it must be wall-anchored)
• Raised toilet seat if the senior has difficulty sitting and standing
• Night light that activates automatically after 9 PM
• All soap and shampoo within easy reach — no bending or reaching up
• Shower stool or seat for those who cannot stand for more than 2 minutes

Bedroom

• Bed height: the senior's feet should touch the floor when sitting on the edge
• Nightlight or motion-sensor light for 2 AM bathroom trips
• Phone or emergency button within arm's reach of the bed
• No loose rugs or mats — or use double-sided tape to secure them
• Clear path from bed to bathroom: no furniture in the way

Kitchen

• Frequently used items on lower shelves (no step stools)
• Non-slip mat at the sink
• Kettle and pressure cooker handles facing inward

Living Room and Hallway

• Remove or secure all loose rugs
• Clear walking path — no footrests or low furniture in pathways
• Adequate lighting — minimum 150 lux (LED daylight bulbs)
• Staircase handrail secure on both sides

After Completing the Checklist

Consider booking a physiotherapy assessment to identify gait and balance issues that are a precursor to falls. CLYKK's Care Physio service includes a Fall Risk Assessment.