Simple Tips for Preventing Falls at Night

Nighttime is when some of the most serious falls can happen, especially because these falls are often unwitnessed. At Circle of Care, we’ve seen this pattern reflected in our own reported falls from clients.

The encouraging part is that many nighttime falls are preventable. With a few simple adjustments and thoughtful routines, you can move more safely and confidently through your home at night.

Why Are Falls More Likely at Night?

At night, several factors come into play:

• Reduced lighting makes it harder to see obstacles
• Some medications taken at bedtime for sleep or other conditions may cause drowsiness
• Drowsiness can affect balance and reaction time
• Urgency (such as needing the bathroom) can lead to rushing
• Blood pressure changes when standing up can cause dizziness

Understanding these risks is the first step toward preventing them.

Easy Ways to Prevent Falls at Night

1. Light the Way

• Use nightlights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms
• Install motion-sensor lights that can automatically turn on, especially if your light switch is far away
• If you wear glasses to see, put them on before getting up so you can see clearly

2. Keep Pathways Clear

• Review the route from your bed to the bathroom, and ensure that it is kept clear and simple to walk through
• Remove loose rugs or secure them with a non-slip backing or double-sided tape
• Keep floors free of cords, shoes, and small furniture
• Arrange furniture to allow a wide, unobstructed walking path

3. Take Your Time Getting Up

• Standing up too quickly can cause dizziness or light-headedness, so be sure to sit on the edge of the bed for a moment before standing
• Flex your feet or gently move your legs to get circulation going, especially if you have diabetes, which can cause decreased sensation in your feet
• Stand slowly and steady yourself before walking

4. Use Support When Needed

• Install grab bars in the bathroom
• Consider a bed rail for added stability when getting up
• Ensure that your bed is set to a useful height for getting up
• If you use a cane or walker, keep it beside your bed for easy access

5. Wear the Right Footwear

• Avoid walking in socks on smooth floors
• Choose non-slip slippers or supportive indoor shoes
• Keep footwear close to the bed for easy access

6. Reduce the Need to Rush

• Keep essentials like glasses, medications, and water within reach
• Consider a bedside commode or incontinence briefs if the bathroom is far away
• Limit caffeine and fluids close to bedtime (if appropriate)
• Attempt to use the bathroom before bed, even if you don’t think you need to go

7. Review Medications

• Speak with your healthcare provider about medication side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness or changes in balance
• Ask if timing adjustments could reduce nighttime risk
• Report any new symptoms like unsteadiness or confusion

Extra Tip For Caregivers: Consider a Bed Sensor Alarm

• If you are a caregiver with a loved one that has a high risk of falls or wandering, consider a bed sensor alarm. This unit uses a pressure-sensitive pad to set off an alarm if it detects that the user has left the bed.

If you’re looking for more personalized guidance, consider joining Circle of Care’s Falls Prevention Program, a 12-week series that combines exercise and educational components designed to help you reduce your risk of falls. Together, we can help you stay safe, confident, and independent—day and night.