Safe Home Environment & Fall Prevention During Hospice Care

At Benchmark Hospice, providing a safe and comfortable environment is an important part of end-of-life care.

As illness progresses, changes in strength, balance, and mobility can increase the risk of falls and injury for both patients and caregivers.

Simple adjustments around the home, the right medical equipment, and support from the hospice team can help create a safer care environment while promoting comfort, dignity, and peace of mind.

Why home safety matters

As patients become weaker or less mobile, everyday activities may become more difficult.

Creating a safe environment can help reduce unnecessary injuries, prevent avoidable hospitalizations, and allow patients to remain comfortable in familiar surroundings.

Home safety during hospice care is not simply about preventing a fall. It is also about helping patients and caregivers feel more confident and supported as care needs change.

Common safety concerns during hospice care

Patients receiving hospice care may experience:

• increased weakness or fatigue
• unsteady walking or balance problems
• difficulty transferring from a bed or chair
• increased sleeping or remaining in bed
• confusion or changes in awareness
• an increased need for caregiver assistance

Recognizing these changes early gives the hospice team an opportunity to recommend adjustments that may improve both safety and comfort.

Simple ways to improve safety at home

A few practical changes can make the home easier and safer to navigate.

Consider:

• keeping walkways clear of clutter and loose rugs
• making sure rooms are well lit
• keeping frequently used items within easy reach
• encouraging patients to ask for assistance before standing or walking
• using prescribed medical equipment correctly
• reporting changes in mobility or falls to the hospice team promptly

As needs change, the hospice team can help families decide what adjustments may be appropriate.

How Benchmark Hospice helps create a safer environment

Benchmark Hospice works with patients and families to create a safe care environment through several types of support.

Skilled nursing

The hospice nursing team can provide:

• ongoing safety assessments
• education on fall prevention
• symptom management that may help address dizziness, weakness, or discomfort

Hospice aide support

Hospice aides may assist with:

• bathing, dressing, and personal care
• safe positioning
• transfers

Medical equipment

Depending on the patient’s needs and hospice diagnosis, equipment may include:

• hospital beds
• walkers or wheelchairs when appropriate
• bedside commodes
• pressure-relieving mattresses
• other equipment related to the hospice diagnosis

The goal is to make daily care safer and more comfortable for both patients and caregivers.

Caregiver education is essential

Providing care at home can involve physical assistance that may become increasingly challenging as a patient’s condition changes.

Benchmark Hospice provides education on:

• safe transfers and repositioning
• preventing caregiver injury
• using equipment safely
• knowing when additional assistance is needed

Helping caregivers understand how to assist safely can protect both the caregiver and the person receiving care.

When to call the hospice team

Families should notify the hospice team if their loved one experiences:

• a fall or near fall
• increased weakness
• difficulty transferring safely
• new confusion or changes in alertness
• increased pain with movement

Often, adjustments to the care plan, equipment, or daily routine can improve safety and comfort.

Hospice support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You are not alone

Creating a safe home environment is a team effort.

Benchmark Hospice is here to provide guidance, education, equipment, and support so patients and families can focus on what matters most: comfort, dignity, and meaningful time together.

Benchmark Hospice is committed to helping patients remain comfortable and safe in the place they call home while honoring each patient’s wishes and goals of care.

If you or someone you love is experiencing increased weakness, changes in mobility, or concerns about safety at home, reach out to the Benchmark Hospice team.

Call Benchmark Hospice at 936-274-3787 to learn more.

The care you deserve.

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