The days are getting shorter, the leaves are beginning to change, and before we know it, we’ll be pulling out our sweaters and turning on the lights a little earlier. 

Fall is a beautiful time of year, but the change in seasons also brings some added safety concerns. Less daylight, wet leaves, changing temperatures and eventually snow and ice can all make getting around more difficult. 

For older adults, taking time to prepare now can reduce the risk of falling and help them stay active and independent through fall and winter. 

According to Health Canada, falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults. The good news is that many falls can be prevented by making simple changes around the home and paying attention to things that can affect our balance and mobility. 

Here are a few things to think about as we head into the darker months. 

Light Up Your Home and Walkways 

With less daylight, good lighting becomes especially important. 

Take a walk around your home and property and check that entrances, walkways, stairs and hallways are well lit. Make sure outdoor lights are working and consider turning them on before it gets dark. 

Inside the home, nightlights can be helpful in hallways, stairways and the route between the bedroom and bathroom. Health Canada recommends having good lighting throughout the home and making sure stairways and entrances are well illuminated. 

A flashlight kept somewhere easy to reach can also be useful if you need to get around during a power outage or in an area where the lighting isn’t great. 

A simple reminder: If you can’t see where you’re stepping, it’s time to turn on a light. 

Pick Up the Clutter 

Look around your home and think about what could become a tripping hazard. 

Shoes left by the door, electrical cords across a walkway, pet toys, bags, boxes or small pieces of furniture can all create obstacles. Health Canada recommends keeping floors and walkways clear of clutter and securing or removing loose cords. 

Don’t forget about stairs. They should be kept clear of items that could cause you to trip, and handrails should be secure and easy to reach. 

Now is also a good time to check rugs and mats. Loose or unsecured rugs can shift underfoot and increase the risk of falling. 

Sometimes a safer home is simply a less cluttered home. 

Keep an Eye on Leaves and Wet Surfaces 

There’s no denying that fall leaves are beautiful, but wet leaves can be slippery. 

Keep frequently used sidewalks, driveways, steps and entrances clear of leaves whenever possible. Be especially careful after rain and in shaded areas where surfaces may remain wet. 

As temperatures begin to drop, remember that water can quickly turn into ice. Check outdoor walkways and steps regularly, and make sure railings are secure before winter weather arrives. 

Health Canada also recommends keeping walkways and stairs in good repair and making sure outdoor areas are free of hazards that could cause someone to slip or trip. 

Check Your Shoes 

The right footwear can make a difference. 

Choose shoes and boots that fit well, provide good support and have soles with good traction. Avoid walking around in socks or loose-fitting slippers, particularly on stairs or smooth flooring. 

Before winter arrives, check the condition of your outdoor footwear. If the soles are worn down, it may be time for a new pair. 

If you use ice grips or other traction devices on your footwear, remember to remove them when entering a building, as they can become slippery on indoor floors. 

Take Your Time 

We often don’t think about rushing as a fall risk, but it can be. 

Give yourself enough time to get where you’re going. When getting out of bed or standing up from a chair, take a moment to make sure you feel steady before walking. 

Use the handrail on stairs, slow down when moving between different types of flooring and be careful when carrying items that might block your view. 

And if something feels unsafe, ask for help. Having someone carry something heavy, clear a walkway or accompany you outside is a smart safety choice. 

Don’t Forget About Your Health 

Fall prevention isn’t just about what’s around us. Our health can also affect our risk of falling. 

Changes in vision, hearing, strength or balance can make everyday activities more difficult. Health Canada recommends regular vision and hearing checks and encourages older adults to talk with their healthcare provider about any concerns with balance or mobility. 

Some medications can also cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you notice that you are feeling unusually dizzy, lightheaded or unsteady, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. 

Staying active is important too. Activities that help maintain strength, balance and flexibility can help you remain steady on your feet. If you’re unsure what type of activity is right for you, speak with your healthcare provider or another qualified professional. 

What If You Do Fall? 

If you do have a fall, don’t immediately try to get back up. Take a moment to check whether you are hurt before attempting to move. 

It’s also important not to simply dismiss a fall as “just an accident.” If you don’t know why you fell, or if you’ve been feeling increasingly unsteady, talk to your healthcare provider. A fall can sometimes be a sign that something has changed with your health, vision, medications or balance. 

And don’t let the fear of falling stop you from staying active. Avoiding activity can lead to loss of strength and mobility, which can increase the risk of falling. 

Take a Few Minutes This Fall 

Fall prevention doesn’t necessarily require major changes or expensive renovations. 

It might mean replacing a burnt-out light bulb, picking up a cord, moving a piece of furniture, securing a loose rug or clearing leaves from the front steps. 

Take a few minutes to walk through your home and around your property. Look at your surroundings the way you would if you were seeing them for the first time. 

Can I see clearly? 
Can I walk safely? 
Are there things in my way? 
Do I have the support I need? 

A few small changes today can make a big difference in helping you or someone you love to stay safe, confident and independent as we move into fall and winter. 

This fall, take the time to look down, look around and light the way. Your future self will thank you. 

Information in this article is informed by fall-prevention resources from Health Canada. For individual health concerns or questions about balance, medications or mobility, speak with your healthcare provider.