Simply carrying out easy steps in the home can help prevent accidents among older people, according to a new report.

Caregivers looking after older relatives are advised to follow a series of Tips to a Safe Home Environment for Ageing Loved Ones by online community ShirleyBoard.com.

More than one third of elderly people in the US aged 65 and over suffer a fall with potentially dangerous consequences each year and falls are the most common cause of non-fatal injury for older adults in the home, the company suggests. Around one in eight adults in Britain is now a carer and most of these look after elderly people.

Slipping hazards can be reduced by removing or securing throw rugs, removing furniture that is easily tripped over, replacing door knobs with lever handles, installing handrails and rubber mats in showers and bathtubs, buying dustpans and brooms with long handles and putting nightlights in the bedroom and hallway.

Meanwhile, a recent report by charity Age Concern has warned that carers looking after senior citizens in Britain are missing out on thousands of pounds in compensation and benefits that they are entitled to and the organisation is now offering free welfare checks and confidential advice on benefits issues.

Gordon Lishman, Age Concern director general, said: "The cost of caring can be a big weight to bear for many people, but claiming carers' benefits can help to lighten the load. Yet thousands of carers across the UK are each missing out on cash benefits of up to £2,500 a year."