Living Room or Lounge
Our guidance helps prevent falls and ensure your comfort. Here are some tips to help you spot hazards and reduce falls risks in your living room:
Chair castors - Are there castors under your chairs that make them slide when you're trying to get up? While castors make furniture easier to move, they can be risky. Consider removing or replacing them with cup-shaped carpet savers to prevent unwanted chair movement.
Chair height - Can you get in and out of your chair comfortably? If your chair is too high or too low, it may make sitting or standing more difficult and increase your risk of falls. Adjust the chair's height if needed, or consider swapping it with one that suits you better.
Obstructed windows - Do you have to lean or reach to open windows or curtains because furniture is in the way? This can be a tripping hazard. Ask for assistance to rearrange your furniture, making sure that windows and curtains are easily accessible.
Clear pathways - Do you have objects or furniture on the floor which may block your pathway when walking around the room? This can make walking more difficult if having to step around things and poses a trip hazard. Make sure you create enough space to walk around freely.
Creating a safe living room environment is essential for preventing falls and ensuring your comfort. If you need further assistance or information, consider reaching out to local resources such as social services or the fire brigade.
Links and Resources
Home Adaptations
Contact your local Handyperson Service for support with minor adaptations such as additional handrails.
Millbrook Healthcare is currently the Handyperson Service for those who fall under Reigate & Banstead Council, Mole Valley Council, and Tandridge Council.
Telephone: 03301 243 758
Text/SMS: 07723 434 387
Email: SurreyHIAContactUS@millbrookhealthcare.co.uk
Surrey County Council have developed an online home equipment finder to help older people stay independent and living in their own home.
Surrey County Council: Home Equipment Finder
Managing at Home
For information on helping you stay independent at home visit Stay Independent on Surrey County Council’s website.
Complete the Adult with Support Needs Form if you, or the person you are completing this form for, live in Surrey and have care and support needs. It will help you find out what support you could get from the council.
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
Please visit the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service website to complete their free online home fire-safety check. This will generate a bespoke fire safety plan, include escape plans and where to install smoke detection.
If you are considered at risk from the answers you submit, a member of Surrey Fire and Rescue Service will be in touch to offer you a free "Safe and Well Visit" to assist you with all your fire safety needs.
Surrey Fire and Rescue Service: Safe and Well Visit Advice
Call Freephone : 0800 085 0767
Text/SMS: 07971 691 898
Fire Safety Advice
- Make sure electrical wires and plugs are kept in good condition, and don't overload sockets.
- Don't dry clothes too close to a heat source – they may catch fire from radiated heat.
- If you smoke, make sure you put it out fully in an ashtray and empty ashtrays regularly.