When the clocks go back, evenings become darker and many of us spend more time at home. Everyday tasks such as using the stairs, putting out the bins or walking to the bathroom at night can become harder to do safely. Small changes can make a big difference. Better lighting, clear walkways and well-placed support can help you move around your home with more confidence.
Our team of experts have shared seven simple ways to ensure your home is working with you this winter, not against you.
Kate Sheehan, Occupational Therapist at Uplifts, says:
1. Light your stairs properly
Poor lighting makes it harder to see each step and increases the risk of trips and falls. Keep the stairs well lit, remove clutter and use the banister rail. Avoid carrying so much that you cannot see the steps or hold the rail.
If stairs are becoming difficult, simple changes such as brighter lights or a second banister rail may help. For greater support, larger adaptations such as a stairlift or homelift may provide a safer and more comfortable way to move between floors while future-proofing the home.
2. Keep walkways clear
Check the routes you use most often, including hallways, living areas and kitchens. Move trailing cables, footstools, piles of magazines, and other objects that narrow the usual routes between rooms.
Make sure these routes are well lit. If you often hold on to furniture or walls for balance, consider changing the layout or asking a professional for advice on using a suitable mobility aid.
3. Make night-time trips to the bathroom safer
The route from the bedroom to the bathroom can be risky when you are sleepy and the house is dark. Use a bedside lamp or motion-activated night lights throughout the journey so you can see the route clearly. Keep the floor clear of clutter and place well-fitted slippers within easy reach. When walking to the toilet, never walk in socks, due to the risk of a slip.
4. Reduce the need to carry heavy items upstairs
Carrying shopping, laundry or other heavy items on the stairs can make it harder to see the steps and to use the banister rail. Store frequently used items near where you need them and split heavy loads into smaller ones. If this is still difficult, ask for help or consider a stairlift or homelift that can safely move people or items between floors.
5. Make every room easy to access
You should be able to use every part of your home. If you avoid the bath, a room or a floor because access feels difficult, look at what is getting in the way.
Grab rails, brighter lighting, better storage or moving furniture may help. Make sure rails and other safety equipment are fitted in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
These changes can give you the confidence to remain in your home.
6. Turn your hallway into a safety zone
Wet shoes, muddy boots, umbrellas and fallen leaves can make entrances slippery.
Use secure, absorbent non-slip mats and keep the area dry, tidy and well lit. Keep a clear space for wet footwear. If possible, place a sturdy chair near the door so you can sit while putting on or taking off shoes and coats.
7. Pay attention to changes in your routine
One of the biggest warning signs occupational therapists see is when people quietly start changing how they use their home. Examples include using only the downstairs toilet, avoiding the stairs after dark or waiting for daylight before doing certain jobs.
These changes may show that your home no longer supports you as well as it should. Acting early usually gives you more choices.
Winter is the perfect time to future-proof your home
Kate concludes: “One of the biggest misconceptions I encounter is that home adaptations are only needed after a fall or when mobility becomes a significant issue. In reality, taking a proactive approach usually provides more options and better outcomes.
“If the darker evenings have highlighted areas of your home that don't work quite as well as they once did, don't ignore them. Often, small changes made today can make a big difference tomorrow.
“Future-proofing can range from simple measures such as better lighting, decluttering, improved storage and professionally fitted grab rails, through to larger investments such as stairlifts and homelifts, which can help homeowners continue enjoying full access to every part of their home. The best solution will depend on your individual needs, lifestyle and property, but planning ahead often provides more choice and greater peace of mind.
“Whether it's improving lighting, reducing trip hazards, creating a safer bathroom or considering longer-term adaptations, the goal isn't simply to prevent accidents. It's to ensure your home continues to support the life you want to live, both now and in the years ahead, helping you maintain your independence and continue enjoying the home and community you love.”