Most falls happen at home, and often in the spaces we use the most. The living room is where we relax, watch TV, read, and spend time with whānau and friends. With a few simple adjustments, it can also be one of the safest rooms in the house.
The ACC Love Your Independence guide reminds us that you do not need to wrap yourself in cotton wool to reduce your risk of a fall. Small, practical changes can make a real difference. The Home Safety Checklist reinforces this, especially around clutter, cords, lighting and safe footwear.
Here is how to make your living room safer, without compromising comfort.
Clear the Pathways
If you cannot walk through your house without bumping into things, it is time to rethink the layout.
What to look for:
- Furniture that narrows walkways
- Coffee tables or footstools in high traffic areas
- Stacks of magazines or newspapers
- Pet toys or loose items on the floor
What you can do:
- Remove or reposition bulky furniture
- Create wide, clear paths between seating and doorways
- Keep floors clutter free
A tidy living room is not just easier on the eye, it significantly reduces trip hazards.
Make It Easier to Reach What You Need
Reaching and bending repeatedly can increase the risk of losing balance. A simple tool can make a big difference.
The Nipper Reacher helps you safely pick up items from the floor, reach for dropped remotes, or grab lightweight objects from shelves without over stretching or bending. It is ideal for everyday use in the living room and supports safe independence at home.
You may also consider:
ShoeStik Shoehorn
Sock aids
Dressing sticks
All designed to reduce strain and unnecessary reaching.
Be Smart About Rugs
Rugs are one of the biggest trip hazards in any home
Check that your rugs:
- Do not slip when walked on
- Are not frayed at the edges
- Do not curl up at the corners
- Lie flat without lumps or wrinkles
Use anti slip mats to anchor them in place, or consider removing them altogether in high traffic areas.
Improve Lighting
Good lighting is one of the easiest and most effective ways to fall proof your home.
In the living room:
- Use floor or table lamps to brighten darker corners
- Replace blown bulbs promptly
- Avoid harsh glare by using frosted bulbs
- Consider nightlights if you move through the room after dark
If you get up at night to use the bathroom, make sure there is a clear, well lit path from your chair to the hallway.
Choose Supportive Seating
Soft, low couches may be cosy, but they can be difficult to get out of safely. The ACC guide highlights that if you find it harder to get out of low chairs without using your hands, it may be a sign to make changes.
Supportive seating not only improves comfort, it reduces strain on hips and knees and lowers the risk of losing balance when standing.
Consider:
- A firm armchair with supportive armrests
- A chair at the right height so your feet sit flat on the floor
- A power lift chair for added assistance when standing
Lift chairs offer smooth, powered assistance to bring you gently to your feet at the touch of a button. They also provide pressure relieving cushioning, supportive positioning for hips and knees, and recline functions that can help ease back and leg fatigue.
| Pride C6 Infinite Position Lift Chair | Pride LC 101 Three Position Leather Lift Chair |
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| This chair allows independent adjustment of the backrest and footrest, giving you personalised positioning for comfort, circulation and relaxation. | A stylish three position lift chair that provides reliable lift support and comfortable reclining options, making it easier and safer to transition from sitting to standing. |
If you prefer to keep your existing chair, chair raisers can increase seat height to make standing easier and safer. A simple solution that can significantly reduce strain.
Keep the Phone Within Reach
If you cannot reach your telephone comfortably from your chair, it is time to make a change
- Keep your mobile phone charged and nearby
- Use a cordless phone
- Consider a personal alarm if you are at higher risk of falls
Planning ahead ensures help is close at hand if you need it.
Wear the Right Footwear
The Home Safety Checklist advises wearing well fitting, flat shoes with non-slip soles and avoiding walking around in socks or stockings.
Even in your living room, supportive footwear can provide extra stability, especially on polished or tiled floors.
Small Changes, Big Difference
Falls are not an inevitable part of ageing. Many are preventable.
Your living room should be a place of comfort and connection, not a source of risk. By decluttering, improving lighting, managing cords, and choosing supportive furniture, you can continue to relax with confidence.
If you would like help choosing practical products to make your living room safer, browse our household range here.
Stay active, stay safe, and enjoy your home with confidence.