08 Jul Set Up for Success: The simple step that can make everyday life safer: from 07/08/2026
Hello!
When people think about preventing falls or making daily activities easier, they often focus on how they’re moving.
But one of the biggest differences I see happens before the movement even begins.
It starts with preparation.
Whether you are getting dressed, making breakfast, transferring from the bed to a wheelchair, or helping a loved one move safely, taking the time to set up your environment can reduce stress, improve safety, and make the task much easier.
What does ‘setting up for success’ look like?
-Keep frequently used items accessible (no rummaging around looking for what you need) and stored between waist and shoulder height to avoid unnecessary reaching or bending.
-Clear pathways of clutter, cords, and throw rugs before walking.
-Position a walker or a wheelchair (or cane / slideboard / knee scooter / crutches / etc.) where it will be needed and where you can easily reach it before standing. Make sure the brakes are locked, obstacles (such as wheelchair leg rests) are out of the way, and it is ready to be used.
-Gather everything you will need before beginning a transfer or daily task.
-Leave enough space around the bed or chair so you can move safely with or without assistive device or assistance from another person.
-Keep water, medications, your phone, and other essentials within easy reach.
These may seem like small changes, but together they can reduce fall risk, save time, and make every day routines feel much less overwhelming.
For Caregivers
If you are helping someone you love, preparation isn’t just about safety, it’s about reducing your own stress, too.
When everything is ready before you begin, you’re less likely to feel rushed, frustrated, or caught off guard. Taking a few extra moments to prepare and think through the task often leads to smoother, safer transfers and a more positive experience for both of you.
If you can set up the environment for your loved one, there is less worry that something will happen and they will be safer if you can’t be there all the time.
For Older Adults
Staying independent doesn’t always require doing more.
Sometimes it means making your environment work for you instead of against you. Small adjustments around your home can help you conserve energy, move with greater confidence, and continue doing the activities that matter most.
This Month’s Challenge
Choose one daily activity that feels difficult or frustrating.
Before you do it next time, pause, think through the task, and ask yourself:
Is everything I need within reach?
Is my pathway clear?
Do I have enough room to move safely?
Can I rearrange anything to make this easier?
You might be surprised how much of a difference one minute of preparation can make.
Need personalized guidance?
Every home, every person, and every mobility challenge is different.
If you or someone you care about could benefit from individualized recommendations, I’d be happy to help. Together, we can develop practical solutions to improve safety, confidence, and independence at home.
Thank you for being part of the My Rehab Answers community. My goal is to provide practical, evidence-based strategies that help you or your loved ones stay safe, independent, and thriving at home.
Dr. Leslie Erwin, PT, CSRS
Owner | Independence & Mobility Coach
No Comments