Anti-Slip Solutions for Older People

Anti-slip solutions for older people – such as non-slip mats, stair nosing, anti-slip tape and grab rails – significantly reduce the risk of falls at home and the often serious consequences that follow.

As we get older, physical stability and reaction times decline, which increases the risk of accidents at home. Non-slip flooring, non-slip mats and grab rails can make hazardous spots safe. These anti-slip solutions for older people help them stay independent and safe in their own homes and prevent potentially serious injuries that often involve long recovery times.

What are the consequences of falls in later life?

Figures from Germany illustrate the scale of the problem: “Falls in old age can be life-threatening. Studies show that 80 per cent of all fatal accidents in the home involve people over 65.

Of course, it doesn’t have to come to that. But injuries and fractures are serious risks too: every year, 160,000 older people suffer a hip fracture as a result of a fall. The fear of never getting back on their feet is great – and real: for 30 per cent of those affected, it leads directly to needing long-term care. Some can still be cared for at home, but most have to move into a
care home because they need permanent care.” (Source: Deutsche Seniorenliga e.V. (German Senior Citizens’ League), guide to preventing falls at home – in German)

How can older people make their home slip-resistant?

To make a home safer for older people and minimise the risk of falls, the following anti-slip solutions for older people are among those that can be used:

1. Non-slip flooring in the bathroom and kitchen: fit non-slip tiles or special non-slip rubber mats. Use self-adhesive anti-slip stickers in the shower and bath. You can also retrofit liquid anti-slip floor coatings.
2. Living areas: consider rugs with non-slip underlays or vinyl flooring, which is naturally slip-resistant.
3. Bathroom grab rails: fit grab rails in the shower, next to the toilet and by the edge of the bath.
4. Stairs: install slip-resistant handrails on both sides of the staircase. Existing handrails can easily be upgraded with our self-adhesive anti-slip handrail tape. Stair treads can be fitted with our self-adhesive anti-slip stair nosing or anti-slip strips, for example.
5. Non-slip rug underlays: use non-slip underlays beneath rugs and runners to stop them sliding.
   Secure the corners: make sure all rugs lie flat, with no corners or edges sticking up that could cause a trip.
6. Clear walkways and furniture layout: make sure furniture and other items are not in the way.
7. Secure cables: fix loose cables to the walls or use cable protectors or cable cover mats to prevent trip hazards.
   Good lighting: ensure all areas are well lit, especially hallways, stairwells and bathrooms.
   Night lights: install night lights or motion-sensor lights to make getting up at night safer.
8. Shoes with non-slip soles: wear non-slip shoes or slippers at home for extra safety.
9. Floor care: keep floors clean and dry to avoid slippery patches.
10. Regular checks: review all safety measures regularly to make sure they remain effective.

Summary

By combining these measures, older people can make their home considerably more slip-resistant and significantly reduce the risk of falls. See our full range of anti-slip solutions here.

FAQs: anti-slip solutions for older people

Where do older people fall most often?

Older people fall most often in the bathroom and shower, on stairs, over rug edges and cables, and in poorly lit hallways. That is exactly where anti-slip solutions make the difference.

What helps on stairs?

On stairs, high-contrast anti-slip stair nosing helps most, because it makes the edge of each step visible and grippy. A continuous handrail that is easy to grasp and good lighting complete the picture.

Are these solutions also suitable for care homes?

Yes, these solutions are also suitable for care homes and hospitals, where additional health and safety and hygiene requirements apply. We match the product and cleaning regime to your facility.

Related solutions and sectors

• Anti-slip solutions for hospitals and care homes
• High-contrast stair nosing
• Anti-slip covers for handrails
• Making bathrooms and showers slip-resistant