Many older adults prefer to remain in their homes as they age. Unfortunately, some homes can present challenges and hazards to seniors which may lead to falls or affect their ability to live independently. Our team at Emory Care at Home curated a list of five strategies to help create a safer environment for your aging loved one.
How to Modify a Home to Create a Safer Environment for Seniors
1. Remove fall hazards
One of the most essential steps in enhancing home safety for your aging loved one is to remove anything that could cause them to trip and fall. Here’s how to minimize tripping hazards:
- Ensure that all walkways and hallways are free of clutter and obstacles like cords or loose rugs.
- Secure area rugs with double-sided tape, remove rugs altogether, or choose rugs with non-slip backing.
- Keep everyday items within reach to prevent older adults from climbing a stepstool or ladder to access them.
- Install adequate lighting throughout the home, including nightlights, to help prevent falls due to poor visibility.
2. Install grab bars and handrails
Installing grab bars in critical areas offers additional support and stability for seniors, which is crucial in preventing falls. Consider the following:
- Place grab bars in the bathroom, including inside and outside the shower and near the toilet where they can help older adults maintain their balance.
- Make sure staircases have sturdy handrails on both sides that run the entire length of the stairs.
- Assess other areas of the home where additional support may be needed, such as hallways or near the bed.
3. Improve bathroom safety
Bathrooms can be especially dangerous for seniors, as the small space and hard surfaces can increase the likelihood of injuries during a fall. Enhance bathroom safety with these tips:
- Install non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower to prevent slips.
- Consider a shower chair or bath bench, along with a handheld showerhead to make bathing safer and easier.
- Lower the temperature of the water heater to prevent accidental scalding.
- Consider using raised toilet seats with armrests to make sitting down and getting up from the toilet easier.
4. Increase home accessibility
Assess and improve the overall accessibility of the home to enhance mobility and comfort for your aging loved one. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Rearrange furniture to create clear and wide paths to accommodate mobility devices like walkers or wheelchairs.
- Consider adding ramps at the home’s entrance or within the home itself if the stairs are challenging to navigate.
- Replace doorknobs with lever handles so it’s easier for older adults with limited hand strength or arthritis to use.
5. Use technology for added safety
Take advantage of new technology to help keep seniors safe at home. Consider incorporating the following advancements:
- Set up a medical alert system that allows older adults to call for help in an emergency.
- Install smart home devices that can control lights, thermostats, and door locks remotely, reducing the need to move around the house for simple tasks.
- Add motion sensors that automatically turn on lights when motion is detected to enhance visibility and reduce the risk of falls.
Implement these five effective strategies to help create a safer home environment for seniors who are aging in place in their own home. Knowing their home is designed for safety will foster peace of mind for both you and your aging loved one. Don’t forget to assess home safety on a regular basis and make adjustments to meet any changing needs.
Enhance home safety with in-home care evaluations
In-home care is a great option for older adults who prefer to age in place at home. As part of the assessment process, an in-home care team member will conduct an in-home evaluation for safety and make recommendations based on the findings. This collaborative and proactive approach can help increase the senior’s independence and reduce the risk of falls or injuries in the home.
Remain Independent at Home with Emory Care at Home
Emory Care at Home offers a customized approach to in-home care and engagement for Knoxville-area seniors who need a little support to remain independent at home. Our dedicated and caring team supports each individual with personalized care and the specialized and research-based I’m Still Here ® approach to meaningful and purposeful living, also known as The Hearthstone Difference.
Download our at-home care guide to learn more about our unique approach to home care for older adults.
