As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, autumn brings a sense of renewal and reflection. But for many, especially older adults, it also brings increased risks of slips, trips, and falls. September marks Fall Prevention Month, a timely reminder to make your home safer and more supportive for the season ahead.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, but the good news is that many are preventable. With a few thoughtful changes, you can enjoy the beauty of autumn without worry. Here are five practical home safety tips to help you or your loved ones stay safe this season, with the help of Gerould’s.

1. Brighten Up Your Home's Walkways and Hallways

Shorter days mean longer nights, and poor lighting can quickly turn a familiar hallway into a hazard. Make sure all entryways, staircases, and hallways are well lit.

Try this:

  • Add motion-sensor night lights to bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways
  • Use brighter, energy-efficient light bulbs throughout the home
  • Install lights near entryways, staircases, and outdoor paths

Related: Is Your Home Aging with You? Signs It's Time for a Safety Upgrade

2. Clear Out the Clutter

Autumn often means more indoor time, which can lead to clutter scattered about the house.

Watch out for:

  • Loose throw rugs
  • Electrical cords stretched across walking paths
  • Shoes, bags, and seasonal décor in walkways

Even small items on the floor can create a big risk. Consider rearranging the furniture if needed to create wider walking paths, especially if a walker or rollator is being used. Remember, a tidy and organized home is a safer home.

Read and Download Our Free Home Safety Checklist: Aging In Place Home Safety Checklist

3. Secure All of Your Rugs and Mats

Area rugs can be stylish, and they definitely add warmth to a room, but they’re also one of the most common causes of in-home falls.

Safe swaps:

  • Add non-slip backing or double-sided tape under rugs to keep them firmly in place
  • Choose low-pile, rubber-backed mats in kitchens and entryways, and non-slip mats in bathrooms
  • Remove rugs entirely in high-traffic zones if slipping is a concern

This is a quick fix that can make a huge difference.

Read This Next: Bathroom Safety: 7 Essential Modifications for Aging in Place

4. Install Grab Bars and Handrails

Bathrooms and staircases are high-risk zones for falls. Luckily, there are tools that can help and are simple to install.

What to install:

  • Grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or tub
  • Handrails on both sides of staircases or porch steps
  • A sturdy railing on outdoor stairs or uneven walkways
  • A temporary or permanent ramp in front of your home, especially for those with assistive devices

If you’re not sure where to start, Gerould’s offers home modification services to help you choose and install the right safety tools for your home. Learn more about our home modification services.

Grab Bar Installation Services

5. Dress for the Season, Inside and Out

Autumn weather can be unpredictable. Wet leaves, rainy days, and early morning frost can make outdoor surfaces slippery. And even inside, wearing the wrong footwear can increase fall risk.

Stay steady by:

  • Wearing shoes with good tread when outdoors
  • Using non-slip socks or slippers inside
  • Avoiding slick soles or walking barefoot on tile or wood floors

Keeping a pair of supportive shoes by the door can serve as a helpful reminder for you.

Staying Safe Doesn’t Mean Giving Up Your Independence

These safety tips aren’t just about being fearful, they’re about feeling confident in your home, so you can keep enjoying the things you love. Whether it’s baking for the grandkids, decorating for the season, or walking out to get the mail, small updates go a long way in supporting mobility and independence.

At Gerould’s, we’ve been helping families in the Elmira area stay independent for generations. We believe fall prevention starts at home, and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

We offer:

Don’t let a fall change it all. Let’s make this autumn safe, warm, and full of peace of mind. Contact us today to get started.

Call Us Now for a Free Consultation! 607-317-6082