Home Safe Home

We are unable to know what challenges we will face as we age and as our abilities change and most of us are neither able nor willing to relocate our home.  So we need to learn how to adapt our homes to meet our needs.  Whenever possible it is best to plan ahead. There are many simple, quick and affordable modifications that can make our homes safer and easier to enjoy as we age.

De-clutter! As we age, our balance and vision decrease and our reflexes slow.  All these things increase the risk of tripping or falling.  Removing clutter and clearing doorways and hallways can prevent injuries.  Individuals using canes, crutches, walkers and wheelchairs need additional room to maneuver in narrow spaces.   

Improved Lighting:  By the time we reach 60, the average adult needs 15% more lightening.  Increasing the wattage of light bulbs and the number of useful lamps in home; adding motion sensor lightening outside the homes and nightlights in hallways; and keeping functional flashlights in easy-to-reach locations throughout the house will decrease risks.  Remembering to check flashlights batteries at least twice a year when checking the smoke detectors is good practice as is keeping extra batteries.

Floor safety:  Falls are the leading cause of nonfatal home injuries; fractures are especially perilous for the elderly because the risk of complications such as infection, blood clots, persistent pain, depression and death is greatly increased.  A fall can also lead to permanent lifestyle changes – leaving patients wheelchair-bound and even forcing patients to move into facility living.  To avoid falls remove throw rugs, or ensure that they have a non-slip backing; clean up spills immediately; and stop using waxes and finishes that could leave a slippery surface.  

Stair safety:  Homes with stairs present other health risks in addition to falls because they increase the wear and tear on knees.  If stairs must be used, caution should be taken to keep steps clear of items and rugs should be tacked down securely.  Wear good-fitting shoes and slippers and add (and use!) handrails to both sides of the stairs.  Maneuver the steps slowly and carefully, and avoid unnecessary trips.  Walkers should never be used on steps.  The caregiver should walk in front of the individual when descending the stairs and behind the individual when ascending.  If the individual appears to weaken or fall, the caregiver should gently guide the individual toward the stairs, they should never attempt to catch the individual.  Installation of an electric stair glide is also a good choice if needed that will allow the individual to sit to ascend the stairs. Use a vivid color to paint any hard-to-distinguish steps to catch your attention and avoid injury.

Bathroom safety:  Bathroom renovations are often impractical due to space and cost limitations, but simple additions can make bathing safer. Adding rubber grips to the bottom of the shower will help reduce slippery surfaces. A thorough rinsing of cleaning agents well from the tub will eliminate the slippery coating that may cover the inside of the tub.  Secure installation of hand grips to walls will assist anyone getting in and out of the shower are also helpful.  The use of a hand-held showerhead allows easier bathing and poses less risk than standing. Adding a shower chair that securely fits the bathtub or shower appropriately is another good measure. Avoid actually sitting down in bathtubs as getting out of the tub is difficult and dangerous. Purchasing a raised toilet seat makes transfers easier when using the toilet.    

Handy handles. Arthritic hands make using basic household items like doorknobs painful and difficult.  Replace doorknobs and faucets with lever handles.  The common use of mugs and glasses with lids -- adult “sippy cups” -- can prevent spills (and falls). 

Safety and security.  There are many safety features we should always have in our homes:  fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors.  These are even more important as we age because our response time decreases.  Consider home security systems that can contact emergency responders and family (these are wonderful holiday gifts for the elderly and many senior agencies subsidize costs).  Cell phones or portable phones that can be carried in a pocket or attached to a walker are also invaluable.  Give a trusted friend or family member an extra house key to allow access if needed.

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Exterior home safety. As we age, being home alone or with an ill loved one can be frightening, especially after dark.  Installing motion-detector outside lighting improves home security. Handicap ramps need to be installed correctly and securely, with rails on both sides, and non-slick paint should be used.  Cars should not be started in garages connected to homes unless garage door are securely open for ventilation.  Spreading salt and sand on outside porches can help alleviate the risk of slipping on ice, but only if the caregiver can do so without risking falls. Snow and leaves should be removed as soon as possible too.

Other home modifications.  Placing frequently used items on lower, easier to reach shelves will make access less problematic. Removing doors to widen doorways will make entry into rooms less difficult.  The use of a bedside commode or urinal at night may prevent falls due to decreased lighting.  If economically feasible, create full bathrooms and laundry hook-ups on the main level of your home, to avoid having to use the stairs repeatedly.  Relocating bedrooms to the main level can be challenging but can be accomplished with relative ease by creatively rearranging furniture.