Bedroom

Your bedroom is a place of relaxation and sleep, but also a place where the risk of falls is present. By making small changes, you can create a safer and more comfortable environment.

Here are some tips to help you identify hazards and reduce falls risk in your bedroom:

Getting in and out of bed

Assess if you feel safe getting in and out of bed. Bedding or clothing that trails onto the floor or is made of a slippery fabric might increase the risk of tripping or slipping. An unsupportive mattress or a bed that is not the correct height can make it more difficult for you to get on and off safely and increase the risk of you rolling out of bed.

Bedside lighting

Make sure there's a convenient way to turn the bedroom light on and off from your bed. Installing a pull cord for the main light within arm's reach is ideal. Alternatively, use a bedside lamp, a battery-powered push light, or sensor lights by the bed and in the corridor.

Telephone accessibility

Having a telephone in your bedroom can be useful. If you have one, make sure that your pendant alarm or mobile phone is within easy reach when you are in bed. Try to charge mobile phones during the daytime to avoid leaving them plugged in overnight, as this can pose a fire risk.

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, and particularly a clear path between the bed and the toilet.

For adaptations and other solutions, including handrails, consider speaking to organisations specialising in home modifications or social services. Their expertise can help ensure your bedroom is a safe and functional space.

Links and Resources

Home Adaptations:

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

Cheshire East Handyperson Service: Orbitas

Cheshire West and Chester Handyperson Service: Homekey+

Managing at Home:

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

Cheshire East:

• Request an assessment from Adult Social Care by telephoning 0300 123 5010
• For more information on Social Care Assessments, view social care assessments website
• Visit the Choices for Care webpage to complete an online form and identify the support you may need

Cheshire West and Chester:

• For information about Adult Social Care and eligibility, view the social care assessments website or telephone the Community Access Team on 0300 123 7034
• Complete a Self-Assessment to establish your support needs, and submit your answers to the Community Access Team for a call back

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