Let’s talk about falls, the four‑letter word nobody wants to deal with. One slip can change everything: a broken hip, weeks in rehab, a loss of independence. The good news is that most falls aren’t random; they’re preventable with small, smart changes. As someone living with MS, I think about balance and safety every single day. This isn’t theory for me, it’s daily life. Here’s a plain‑talk guide to making the home safer without turning it into a hospital.

Start with a quick home scan
Walk through the house the way your loved one lives in it. What do they reach for first thing in the morning? Where do they turn the corner too fast? Look for tripping hazards (loose rugs, cords, pet bowls, stacked shoes), poor lighting, and slippery surfaces. If you only do one thing today, remove clutter from walkways. Clear paths = fewer accidents.

Light it right
Dim corners and nighttime bathroom trips are prime fall territory. Add nightlights in the bedroom, hall, and bathroom. Swap out soft yellow bulbs for bright, daylight‑balanced bulbs where it makes sense. Motion‑sensing lights are fantastic for bedrooms and hallways, no fumbling for switches at 2 a.m.

Bathroom upgrades that don’t scream “hospital”
Grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower are game‑changers. Choose sturdy, installed bars (not suction cups). Add a non‑slip mat in the tub and a bath rug with a solid grip. A shower chair can make bathing safer and less exhausting. And yes, the pretty towel bar is not a grab bar, ask me how I know.

Footwear matters inside the house, too
Slippers with slick bottoms are a no. Choose shoes or slippers with closed heels and grippy soles. If swelling is an issue, look for adjustable straps or wide‑toe options. Socks with rubber grips can help on hardwood floors, but shoes still offer the best support.

Rethink the floor plan
If the favorite recliner requires a tight turn or a rug hop, it’s an accident waiting to happen. Space furniture so there’s a clear path from bed to bathroom to kitchen. Move frequently used items to waist or shoulder height to avoid bending and reaching.

Medication review = safety tool
Dizziness, drowsiness, and low blood pressure can increase fall risk. Ask the doctor or pharmacist to review medications for side effects and interactions, especially after hospital stays or new prescriptions. Pair this with consistent hydration (dehydration makes you woozy) and regular meals.

Strength and balance, yes, it helps.
Simple daily movements, such as sit‑to‑stands from a sturdy chair, gentle heel‑to‑toe walking along a counter, and ankle circles, build strength and confidence. If appropriate, ask a doctor about physical therapy for targeted balance work. No gym membership required.

Assistive devices: use them like a pro
Canes and walkers only help if they fit correctly and are used consistently. A physical therapist can size devices properly and teach safe use. Add a small basket or tray to a walker to keep hands free for balance.

Make fall plans in advance
If a fall happens, panic makes things worse. Keep a charged phone nearby, consider a medical alert device, and talk through a simple plan: who to call, how to get help, and when to avoid trying to stand. Practice calm language, “Let’s pause and breathe; help is on the way.”

Bring in backup
If the house still feels risky or your loved one is unsteady, a professional caregiver can be the difference between “close calls” and confidence. We spot hazards, support safe bathing and transfers, and keep an eye on the little things that prevent big problems. It’s the kind of proactive care I encourage in Let Your Cup Runneth Over, prevention is self-care.

Bottom line
Fall prevention isn’t about fear; it’s about freedom. Fewer falls mean more mornings at home, more favorite meals at the kitchen table, and more peace of mind for everyone.

Ready for a safety check?
Email marietta@carebuildersathome.com to book a fall‑prevention visit or ask for our Home Safety Checklist.