Difficulty with climbing stairs and moving around the house safely

Moving around the house unsafely can develop gradually. Often, a person adapts without even realising it.

You may, for example, notice that:

• climbing stairs takes more effort;
• you become short of breath or tired on the stairs;
• you experience pain when climbing stairs;
• you’re afraid of tripping;
• you have difficulty with thresholds;
• you hold on to furniture;
• if you are unsure in the bathroom or kitchen;
• you feel less confident about carrying things;
• you avoid certain areas.

Sometimes you may find that your confidence has waned. You can still move about, but it feels less safe than it used to.

Difficulty climbing stairs and moving around the house can be caused by pain, reduced muscle strength, stiffness or problems with balance. Dizziness, reduced sensation in the feet or impaired vision can also play a part.

The home itself can increase risks. Examples include loose rugs, slippery floors, thresholds, poor lighting, cluttered walkways or a lack of a proper handrail on the stairs.

Fatigue also plays a part. When you are tired, you often react more slowly. This makes it more likely that you will trip or lose your balance.

You can often make your home safer with small changes. It helps to take a critical look at the areas where you walk frequently.

For example, you could:

• ensure good lighting;
• remove or secure loose pieces of fabric;
• keep walkways clear;
• wear sturdy shoes or slippers;
• make good use of the banister;
• Do not carry things whilst climbing the stairs;
• Get up gently before you start walking;
• dry wet or slippery floors immediately;
• make thresholds clearly visible.

Take uncertainty seriously. It’s fine to walk more slowly. The important thing is that you keep moving safely.

It is wise to seek help if you feel unsafe at home or if you have nearly fallen. Advice is also important if you avoid using the stairs, hold on to furniture or go out less often because you feel unsteady.

Don’t wait until you fall. It is often the small signs that indicate your home or the way you move needs attention.

Together, we’ll look at where moving around your home feels difficult or unsafe. In doing so, we’ll take into account your physical condition, your habits and the layout of your home.

A occupational therapist can look at safe walking routes, aids and adaptations in the home. A physiotherapist can help with strength, balance and confidence in movement. If a fear of falling plays a major role, it can psychological support for stress and anxiety should be appropriate.

Together, we look for solutions that ensure greater safety and peace of mind at home.