Here are some tips to help you identify hazards and reduce falls risk in external outdoor areas of your home:

Clear pathways - Are your paths clear of leaves and overgrown plants? Maintaining tidy outdoor areas, free of obstacles, is essential for safety. Regularly clear away leaves and trim overgrown plants to keep pathways clear.

Slippery surfaces - Are your paving stones free of moss and algae? If not, this can become slippery when wet. Prune overhanging plants and branches to improve lighting. You can purchase products to remove algae or get help from someone to do it with a pressure washer.

Uneven or broken paving - Do you have any uneven or broken paving slabs? These can be trip hazards. Arrange for someone to replace or straighten them to make sure your walking surface is level.

Gardening considerations - Are your flower beds at ground level? They’ll be easier to access if they are in containers or raised beds. When you are in the garden, avoid spending too much time in one position and be cautious when standing up from a bent-over position, as this may cause dizziness.

Entry steps - Do you have steps to get in and out of the property? Consider installing an additional step, grab rails, or a ramp, depending on your needs, to increase stability and safety. If you’re concerned about accessing your property, seek professional advice or assessment to help identify a solution.

Walking aids - If you use a walking aid, do you have an appropriate one to use outdoors? Wheeled zimmer frames are not safe for outdoor use. If a walking stick does not provide enough support, consider an outdoor walker such as a 3- or 4-wheeled walker. These are available for purchase from mobility shops or the internet.

For adaptations and other solutions, consider speaking to organisations specialising in home or garden modifications or social services. Their expertise can help ensure your outdoor area is safe and functional.

Links and Resources

Home Adaptations

Contact your local Handyperson Service for support with minor adaptations such as additional handrails.

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Managing at Home

For further assessment, if you are struggling to manage around your home, contact Social Services.

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If you feel you are struggling to manage at home due to changes in your mobility, contact your GP and ask to be referred for assessment for rehabilitation.

Fire Safety

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