The bedroom is where a lot of nighttime falls start — getting in or out of bed, reaching for something in the dark. A few changes address most of the risk.

Bed Height

A bed that’s too high or too low makes sitting down and standing up harder. Ideally, feet should rest flat on the floor with knees roughly level with hips while seated on the edge of the bed.

A Clear Path to the Bathroom

Keep the route from bed to bathroom completely clear, and well lit — see our full nighttime fall prevention guide.

Bed Assist Rails

A bed rail provides something sturdy to hold onto when getting in or out of bed — see our guide on bed rails and assist devices for the types available and how to choose safely.

What to Keep Within Reach

• A lamp or light switch reachable without getting up
• A phone or medical alert device
• Glasses, kept in a consistent spot

Flooring

Remove loose rugs, or secure them with non-slip backing — a rug that shifts underfoot right next to the bed is a common, easily preventable fall risk.

Considering an Adjustable Bed

For some situations, an adjustable bed can make getting in and out significantly easier — see our guide on adjustable bed benefits and costs.

Next Steps

Each linked guide above covers one part of this checklist in more depth.