Elderly fall prevention devices
The leading cause of non-fatal injuries in older adults is falls which often result in loss of independence. But, the good news is, many of them are preventable with simple, practical changes to the home. Fall prevention devices such as grab bars, bed rails, and non-slip flooring are low-cost tools that offer high-impact protection. Investing in these devices not only reduces the risk of falls but also help seniors stay safe, confident and independent in their own homes. Compared to the financial and emotional cost of hospitalization, injury, or assisted living, these preventable tools are a smart and affordable solution that empowers aging adults to live with dignity and security.
Common Fall prevention devices in and around the home (by location):
Entryway
Nonslip mats - provides secure footing in a high-traffic area of the home that is frequently exposed to water, dirt, or debris tracked in from the outside making this area high risk for falls. A sturdy nonslip mat reduces the risk by absorbing moisture, trapping dirt, and creating a slip-resistant surface.
Motion-sensor lighting - is a smart fall prevention tool because it ensures an area is well lit at all times to prevent an older adult from needing to fumble around for the light switch. Poor lighting is leading cause of trips and falls.
Threshold ramp - to ensure smooth transition for walkers or wheelchairs through doorways. Even a small lip of an inch or two can be a huge tripping hazard for older adults, especially for those with limited foot clearance such as drop foot. Just be sure to measure and choose the correct rise height.
Living room
Cord organizers - can help reduce risk of tripping over loose cords. A simple, yet effective way to clear walking paths and ensure adequate space to walk through, especially if using a mobility device such as a walker, rollator or wheelchair.
Furniture risers - elevate seat heights to make it easier to stand up. No more worrying about asking for help to stand from a chair or avoiding sitting at the dinner table because the chair is too low. Furniture risers can be a simple and inexpensive way to ensure you do not miss out on sitting with family at the table for meals!
Fall detection systems
Non-wearable devices or smart home options can be used for adults who may not want to or be able to keep track of wearing a device on their bodies during the day. Non-wearable devices can include cameras around the home or devices with a sensor that offers motion detection. You can set up safety zones in the home (e.g., bathroom or bedroom) and it can detect when movement suddenly stops and provide immediate alerts.
Wearable medical alert systems are a great tool for older adults in the home or on the go. There are many product options that offer portable caregiver monitoring and emergency response networks.
Here are some common brands: Medical Guardian, Bay alarm Medical, ADT
Smart watches can be a good option as it provides built-in fall detection and can call 911 automatically if the wearer does not respond after a fall event is detected. Something to consider is that the wearer must be comfortable charging and wearing the smart watch consistently.
Standing aid rail for the couch - provides a sturdy, elevated surface to use your hands for pushing up into standing. Many people rely on a chair with arm rests to push through their hands and achieve standing. This option brings the arm rests to your favorite spot on the couch!
Lift assist cushion - is portable and can be placed on any seat surface to provide a lift assist as you stand up. There are various options that offer an electric powered lift or pneumatic spring, depending on your preference. Be sure to check the weight minimum and maximums on the product.
Kitchen
Reacher/grabber tools - are incredibly useful and functional if you have limitations to overhead reaching or bending over. If you avoid these movements simply out of fear of falling, this tool also comes in handy. Although, we need to address the bigger issue (e.g. strength, balance, and confidence).
Anti-fatigue mats (with non-slip backing) - offer cushioning and shock absorption to provide comfort and maintain steadier posture for activities that require prolonged standing. As people age, standing on hard surfaces for a prolonged period, such as when preparing food or doing dishes, can cause fatigue, muscle soreness and joint discomfort. This is a useful tool for seniors to reduce strain on the feet, legs and back during standing activities.
Step stools with handrails - are one way to access items on a shelf or counter out of your reach. The addition of the handrail is an important detail that adds stability when stepping on and off of the stool. While it may be a better option for some to move these hard to reach items to an easier to reach location, it is not always an option. If you must use a step stool, find one with a textured non-slip surface on the step and rubber feet for added safety.
Bathroom
Grab bars - by the toilet and shower are essential safety additions to one’s home as falls in the bathroom happen far too often. Consider opting for a professional installation mounted into the wall rather than the suction cups which do not offer near as much support and can result in a fall. Click here to find a resource on the standard for ADA requirements for grab bar placements.
Raised toilet seat - can be the difference between an older adult’s ability and inability to complete the toileting activity independently. Low toilet seats are often very difficult for elderly individuals to stand from and asking for help in this situation may be embarrassing. A raised toilet seat can also make it easier and safer to transfer on and off the toilet, further facilitating independence in the restroom which maintains ones dignity and privacy.
Non-slip bath mats - helps improve safety during transitions in and out of the shower/bath by reducing risk of slippage. Shower transfers are an all too common culprit for falls in the bathroom due to the wet and soapy ground as well as fatigue after the activity of shower/bathing. Adding an additional layer of stability in the shower or bath can reduce the risk of slipping.
Handheld shower heads - with adjustable height and flexible hose lets the user control the water flow without twisting or stretching, which is especially important for those with limited mobility, poor balance, or joint pain. By making bathing more comfortable and controlled, hand-held shower heads support both safety and independence in the bathroom.
Shower chair - are a good device for those who can safely transfer in and out of the shower stall or tub. It reduces the need to stand for long periods on a slippery surface and conserves energy to complete the shower with peace of mind.
Tub bench - is used to enter and exit tub showers safely in a seated position by scooting sideways and avoiding the need to step over the height of the tub which is a huge fall risk. For those who struggle with balance, lack the strength to lift their leg up and over the tub or have limited joint movement, a tub transfer bench can be a great solution to ensure continued access to their tub shower—whether independently or with the help of a caretaker.
Bedroom
Bed rails - can prevent rolling out of bed and assist with transitioning between lying and sitting at the edge of the bed. This movement requires coordination and core strength, both which decline as we age. The use of bed rails is a simple yet effective way to assist with bed mobility and maintain independence.
Night lights - proper lighting is crucial for preventing falls if you frequent the restroom at night. It is important to have the walking path illuminated with adequate lighting to avoid the need to stumble and feel one’s way through doorways, furniture, and sleeping pets!
Fall mats - are a heightened layer of protection for those who are prone to falling out of bed. But be mindful that these need to be removed before the older adult stands and walks to prevent tripping.
Stairs/Hallways
Handrails (both sides if possible) - provide the necessary support to ascend or descend stairs and to maintain stability transitioning between each step.
Stair treads - can be used on hard stair surfaces to increase friction and reduce the risk of slipping.
Vehicle
Car door handle - is a portable door latch bar for extra support getting into and out of a vehicle. Car transfers can be tricky due to limited options for convenient hand placement but this tool is a quick and easy-to-use solution. This product is a fan favorite from many of my clients!
Portable step stool - can help a person safely access the car seat that may be too tall to easily turn and sit. With adjustable leg heights on the sturdy step stool, this is a great option with versatility to fit your needs.
Purchasing fall prevention devices for the home is not just a safety upgrade—it is a critical part of a complete fall prevention program. These tools, such as grab bars, non-slip mats, motion-sensor lights, and added rails help reduce the risk of falls by removing common hazards and supporting safe movement throughout daily routines. For older adults, even one fall can result in serious injury, loss of independence or costly hospital stays. By proactively using assistive devices, seniors can stay safe in their homes longer, maintain confidence in their mobility, and reduce the fear of falling. Family members can have greater peace of mind knowing that their loved one is living in an environment equipped with safety features and fall prevention tools.
Please note, the links above are simply examples. I have not personally used or reviewed any of the above products. Please do your due-diligence in researching the right products for your needs!