Just Ask: How Can Seniors Prevent Falls and Access Home Safety Rebates?
Hayley Toth | Sunshine Coast Resource Centre
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury for seniors. In British Columbia, an average of 42 seniors are hospitalized every day for a fall-related incident, many of which result in long hospital stays and a loss of independence. Winter can increase the risk. Ice, snow, poor lighting, and cluttered spaces can all make slipping or tripping more likely, especially during the busy holiday season.
The good news is that many falls can be prevented with a few practical steps.Health experts, including Vancouver Coastal Health, recommend a combination of staying active, being aware of surroundings, and making small safety improvements at home. Programs offered through the Sunshine Coast Regional District (SCRD are great ways for seniors to stay active, improve strength and balance, and reduce fall risk. Winter programs start in January and there are still some spaces available. You can register by calling 604-885-6801, in person or online at www.scrd.ca/recreation-registration/. You can also check out programs at Harmony Hall in Gibsons or the Sechelt Seniors Centre, although membership is required.
Simple home updates can make a big difference in preventing falls. Installing grab bars in bathrooms, especially near toilets and in showers, provides extra support where slips are most common. Adding handrails on both sides of stairways can give seniors more stability when going up and down stairs, while non-slip mats in bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways reduce the risk of slipping on wet or smooth surfaces. Rugs should be securely taped down or removed to prevent tripping. Improving lighting throughout the home, including night lights in hallways, helps seniors see obstacles and navigate safely, especially during shorter winter days. Keeping walkways free of clutter, cords, and obstacles prevents tripping hazards indoors. Even small changes, like moving furniture to widen walkways or adding contrasting tape on stair edges, can make a noticeable difference in safety and confidence.
Several programs can help make these changes more affordable. The BC Home Renovation Tax Credit for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities provides eligible individuals claim up to 10% of qualifying renovation costs (to a maximum of $1,000 per year) on their provincial income tax return for upgrades like grab bars, handrails, or better lighting. Contact the Canada Revenue Agency with questions about your tax credit claims (1-800-959-8281) The BC Rebate for Accessible Home Adaptations provides low-income seniors with rebates up to $17,500–$20,000 for larger modifications, such as bathroom redesigns, ramps, or improved lighting. You can check out eligibility for this program online at www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/BC-RAHA or by calling 604-443-2218. At the federal level, the Home Accessibility Tax Credit allows seniors or people with disabilities (or their supporting family members) to claim 15% of eligible home accessibility expenses on their federal tax return. Keeping receipts and asking for guidance from community tax clinics, accountants, or CRA resources can help ensure you get all the credits and rebates you’re entitled to.
If you or someone you care about is concerned about falling, we may be able to help. The Resource Centre can connect you with information and support if accessing it on your own is difficult. Our Seniors Community Connector can also help seniors get involved in community programs, including recreation. Even small changes — like adding a grab bar, securing a rug, improving lighting, or keeping walkways clear — can make a big difference in confidence and independence, helping seniors stay safe, active, and engaged throughout the winter months.