Why Traditional Blinds Pose Hidden Risks for Families and Older Adults

The Hidden Hazards Behind Everyday Blinds

Window blinds are something we interact with every day — often without thinking. Yet for families with young children or older adults, traditional corded blinds can present serious safety concerns. What seems like a harmless pull cord or chain can quickly become a hazard, leading to preventable injuries and accidents.

At Forbes Blinds, we believe safety and comfort should come standard in every home. That’s why we’re helping more homeowners transition to motorised, cordless blinds — a simple upgrade that makes a world of difference.

The Risks of Corded Blinds for Children

Over the past decade, there has been growing awareness about blind cord safety. Tragically, loose cords and chains have been linked to strangulation accidents involving babies and toddlers across the UK. Even when parents take care to tie cords out of reach, curious children can still find a way to climb or pull them down.

According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), most blind cord accidents happen quickly and silently, often in rooms where adults believe children are safe.

Common risks include:

• Looped cords: These can form a noose, which may tighten around a child’s neck.

• Low-hanging chains: When furniture is nearby, children can reach cords easily.

• Unsecured cleats or tensioners: If these come loose, cords can drop back within reach.

  
  

Modern blind safety standards now recommend cordless designs or motorised operation as the safest options.

Why Traditional Blinds Are Difficult for Older Adults

The elderly face a different kind of challenge with traditional blinds. Pull cords can tangle, jam, or require awkward movements that are difficult for those with arthritis, mobility issues, or reduced grip strength. For older adults living independently, this can lead to strains, balance loss, or even falls when reaching over furniture or attempting to adjust blinds.

Motorised blinds eliminate this struggle entirely. With one simple button press — or even a voice command through Alexa or Google Home — blinds glide smoothly open or closed.

Benefits for older users include:

• No need to stretch or reach.

• Safer operation without cords.

• Automatic scheduling for daylight and privacy.

• A greater sense of independence at home.

  
  

The Solution: Motorised Blinds for Safer, Smarter Living

Motorised blinds remove cords and chains completely. Instead, the blinds are controlled via a remote, smartphone app, or wall switch, providing complete safety for children and effortless convenience for seniors.

They’re ideal for:

• Family homes: Completely child-safe and compliant with the latest blind safety standards.

• Assisted living environments: Allow residents to maintain independence safely.

• Modern homes and rentals: Sleek, cordless, and easy to install without drilling.

Motorised blinds also bring smart home functionality — you can automate your blinds to adjust with the sun, saving energy and maintaining consistent comfort throughout the day.

Retrofitting: Upgrade Without Replacing Your Blinds

One of the biggest misconceptions about motorised blinds is that you have to replace your existing window coverings. With Forbes Blinds’ retrofit service, you don’t need to buy new fabrics or drill holes.

Our team can retrofit motors to most existing blinds and curtains, turning your current setup into a modern, safe, motorised system. This makes it ideal for rented properties or anyone looking to upgrade without the mess or cost of new installations.

Benefits of retrofitting:

• No new blinds or fabrics required

• No drilling or wall damage

• Fast installation by qualified experts

• Cost-effective and sustainable

  
  

Peace of Mind from Every Angle

Whether you’re childproofing your home or making life easier for a loved one, motorised blinds offer peace of mind. They’re more than a luxury — they’re an investment in safety, comfort, and independence.

At Forbes Blinds, we believe everyone deserves to live in a home that’s both beautiful and safe. If you’re ready to modernise your space safely and effortlessly, contact Forbes Blinds today.We supply and install a full range of motorised blinds and offer retrofit motorisation for your existing blinds — with minimal disruption, no drilling, and no mess.

📞 Book your free consultation or learn more about our retrofit options at www.ForbesBlinds.com