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Living Rooms & Bedrooms
People spend most of their time at home in living rooms or bedrooms. The space is full of furniture and items. As people get older, some of the furniture and items become barriers. Reconfiguring the furniture and walkways in these rooms with safety in mind may be necessary.
Irene's favorite spot in the house is a rocking chair. She never had problems getting in and out of the chair. Now that she has gone through the hip surgery, her leg muscles have a lot less strength than before and it's a lot more challenging for her to sit down and get up from her favorite spot. This rocking chair poses fall risks. You can download the full check list here.
Areas of risk & Best practices: furniture
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When older adults sit on any chair or sofa, their hips are higher than their knees
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When older adults sit down, their whole feet are on the floor comfortably
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There is something to hold on to, arms or poles, near the furniture, for older adults to get in and out of the furniture
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Cushions and mattresses should be firm enough, not too soft
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Pathways are clear
Areas of risk & Best practices: furniture
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Avoid placing area rugs in pathways
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If rugs are used, their edges should be securely attached to the floor and never left curled
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When placing rugs underneath furniture, the rugs should be big enough. Otherwise, rugs become tripping hazard when older adults move the furniture
Best practices: lighting
- Ensure all areas of the home are well lit – especially in areas where the older adult spends most of their time
- Night lights are essential near beds, bathrooms, and in pathways
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