Home modifications that support safety, security, and aging in place are beneficial for everyone, regardless of health status. According to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), approximately 50% of falls that lead to hospitalization among older adults occur at home. Furthermore, “Among older adults (65+), falls account for about 85% of injury-related hospitalizations due to trauma” (PHAC, 2014). This highlights that when considering falls prevention and reducing hospitalization risk, the first place to focus is your own home.
New research commissioned by HomeEquity Bank and conducted by Ipsos shows that 94% of Canadians over 45 believe aging in place allows them to maintain independence, comfort, and dignity (Ipsos & HomeEquity Bank, 2025). Investing in home modifications is therefore not just about safety, it is an investment in your long-term quality of life. While some modifications can be costly, many simple changes can significantly improve accessibility, support safe, independent mobility, and reduce the risk of falls. Modifications can range from adaptive equipment and technology to environmental adjustments (Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists, n.d.).
Basic Modifications for Home
Reduce Clutter
Reducing clutter is a simple, low-cost strategy that greatly improves safety and security. PHAC notes, “Reducing clutter in the home is a simple but effective strategy to prevent falls. Clutter-free spaces improve mobility, decrease the risk of tripping, and promote independence, especially among older adults” (PHAC, 2014). When purchasing furniture, consider pieces with built-in storage to minimize loose items. For parents and pet owners, using playpens or fenced areas can help contain toys and reduce tripping hazards.
Improve Lighting
Adequate lighting is critical for safe navigation. Bright, consistent lighting throughout the home reduces fall risk, and strategically placed light switches, ideally at the entrance to every room, allow you to illuminate spaces before entering. If rewiring is challenging, consider smart lighting apps or motion-sensor lights for convenience, particularly at night (CSA Group, 2023).
Reduce Slipping Hazards
Prevent slips by anchoring rugs and carpets, removing threshold trim where possible, and using non-slip mats in moisture-prone areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways. Smooth transitions between rooms help prevent trips, and keeping walkways clear is essential for safe mobility (Warsson, 2015).
Consider Home Design
If moving to a new home or renovating, consider wider doorways and walkways to accommodate mobility aids now or in the future (CSA Group, 2023). Planning ahead can save costly retrofits later and ensure your home supports independence for years to come.
Safety on Stairways
Stairs are a common site of falls. The PHAC (2014) reports that 26% of falls among adults 65+ occur on stairs or steps. Full railings on both sides, extending from top to bottom, are essential for safe navigation. Some individuals may develop an arm/shoulder injury that makes holding the railing with their dominant hand a challenge, this is why having a railing on both sides of the stairs is best practice. For slick stair materials, non-slip strips can reduce slip risk, and wearing socks on stairs should be avoided. High-contrast step and riser design enhances depth perception, reducing missteps. If carpeting stairs, choose patterns that are simple and non-distracting (CSA Group, 2023). Healthbound Wellness offers Physiotherapy for Balance and Fall Prevention to improve mobility confidence and reduce fall risk.
Safety in Bathrooms
Bathrooms pose unique risks due to compact space and moisture. Studies show bathroom falls are more than twice as likely to cause injury compared to living room falls. Key modifications include:
- Grab Bars and Poles: Grab bars near toilets and within and outside of showers and bathtubs promote safe transfers. While suction cup grab bars exist as a quick and cheap solution, they are not anchored and are not reliable solutions (CSA Group, 2023). While it may be more expensive, having permanent grab bars installed in key places will promote long term safety and independence at home. Floor to ceiling poles can also be a good alternative to grab bars when the space is limited (CSA Group, 2023). For guidance on which grab bars are ideal for your home, consult with an occupational therapist.
- Shower Chairs/Benches: Falls can happen while bathing, if you are concerned about dizziness, fatigue, balance or reduced standing tolerance, consider using a shower chair or bench. Be sure to select a chair that is comfortable and has non-slip footing. You may also consider a back rest or arm rests to assist with transferring. If dizziness, vertigo, or balance issues increase your risk of falling during bathing, the concussion & vestibular rehabilitation program can help improve stability and reduce symptoms.
- Removable Shower Heads: Allow for seated showering and reduce the need for bending or reaching, improving safety and independence.
- Roll-In Showers: When designing a shower consider roll-in showers that do not have a threshold to allow for a seamless transition. Additionally, consider the position and type of shower head. When considering the entrance of the shower and position of shower head, it may be good to consider long term how a personal support worker (PSW) may assist you with bathing if needed (Warsson, 2015). Neurological Rehabilitation aims to enhance safe transfers, coordination, and overall independence at home.
- Raised Toilets: Extra-tall or raised seats reduce the need to squat, making transfers easier and safer.
When designing bathroom spaces, consider long-term caregiving needs. Poor layout can force a caregiver into the shower space, which may compromise safety and privacy. Thoughtful design now ensures continued independence and dignity.
Strategies for Falls Prevention
Simple daily strategies complement physical modifications:
- Keep it Close: Place everyday items like dishes, cooking utensils, or toiletries on shelves or cabinets that are at waist or shoulder height. Avoid storing them in high or low cupboards that require bending, stretching, or using a step stool, which can increase the risk of falls. For instance, keep your coffee mugs in a cupboard near the counter where you brew coffee, or store your shampoo and soap on a shower caddy within arm’s reach rather than on a high shelf.
- Keep it Convenient: Instead of making multiple trips across the house, gather all the items you need before starting a task. For instance, if you’re bringing laundry to the basement, collect all clothes from every room in one trip rather than going back and forth. Similarly, when cooking, bring all ingredients and utensils to your workspace at once to avoid extra walking. This simple planning reduces fatigue and lowers the risk of trips and falls.
- Keep it Clear: Keep stairways, hallways, and entryways free of clutter such as shoes, bags, toys, or loose rugs. For instance, avoid leaving backpacks or laundry baskets on stairs, and store shoes in a designated rack near the door instead of along the hallway. Clear pathways make it easier to move safely and reduce the risk of trips and falls.
Investing time and resources into home modifications is a proactive way to maintain independence, comfort, and safety as we age. From reducing clutter and improving lighting to installing grab bars and non-slip surfaces, even small changes can significantly lower the risk of falls. These modifications not only prevent injury but also support confidence, autonomy, and peace of mind. Remember, fall prevention is not just about avoiding accidents, it’s about creating a home environment where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can move freely, safely, and confidently. Consulting with professionals like occupational therapists can further personalize modifications to your unique needs, ensuring your home remains a safe and welcoming space for years to come.
References:
Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists. (n.d.). Home Assessment and
Modifications. https://caot.ca/document/8205/Home%20Assessment%20and%20Modifications%20EN.pdf
CSA Group. (2023). CSA/ASC B652:23 Accessible dwellings. Canadian Standards
Association.
Ipsos, & HomeEquity Bank. (2025, May 16). Nearly all Canadians (96%) aged forty‑five
and older say aging in place enables the preservation of independence and dignity. Ipsos. https://www.ipsos.com/en-ca/nearly-all-canadians-96-aged-forty-five-and-older-say-aging-place-enables-preservation-independence
Public Health Agency of Canada. (2014). Seniors’ Falls in Canada: Second
Warsson, S. (2015). Housing Adaptations and Home Modifications. In: Söderback, I.
(eds) International Handbook of Occupational Therapy Interventions. Springer, Cham.
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