What Steps Can You Take to Make a Home Safer for an Aging Loved One?

Creating a secure living space for elderly family members requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Small modifications can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and maintaining independence. Here’s your comprehensive guide to transforming a home into a safer environment for your senior loved one.

Remove Fall Hazards throughout the Home

Falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors, making this your top priority when creating a safe environment.

Clear pathways and secure loose items:

• Remove or secure loose rugs, especially in high-traffic areas.

• Keep walkways free of clutter, electrical cords, and furniture.

• Ensure adequate lighting in all areas, particularly stairways and hallways.

• Install motion-sensor lights for nighttime navigation.

• Secure carpets with no-slip backing or tape.

Address slippery surfaces:

• Place nonslip mats in bathrooms and kitchen areas.

• Consider removing throw rugs entirely if they cannot be properly secured.

• Wipe up spills immediately and maintain clean, dry floors.

In the golden years, it’s easier to maintain a high quality of life in a senior-friendly home. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide homecare Richmond families can trust. You can turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.

Modify the Bathroom for Maximum Safety

Bathrooms present unique challenges due to wet surfaces and the physical demands of bathing and toileting.

Install supportive equipment:

• Add grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub (professionally installed into wall studs).

• Place a shower chair or bench in the bathing area.

• Install a raised toilet seat if mobility is limited.

• Use a handheld showerhead for easier bathing.

Improve accessibility:

• Ensure the bathroom door opens outward or consider removing the door entirely.

• Keep frequently used items within easy reach.

• Install adequate lighting, including nightlights.
• Consider a walk-in shower or tub if your budget allows.

Enhance Kitchen Safety and Accessibility

The kitchen contains multiple safety concerns, from sharp objects to hot surfaces and potential fire hazards.

Organize for easy access:

• Store frequently used items between waist and shoulder height.

• Keep heavy items on lower shelves to prevent overhead lifting.

• Install pull-out shelves or lazy Susans in deep cabinets.
• Ensure good lighting over work areas and inside cabinets.

Address fire and burn prevention:

• Consider induction cooktops, which stay cooler than traditional electric or gas.

• Install automatic shutoff devices on stoves.

• Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible.
• Check that smoke detectors are working and batteries are fresh.

If your loved one is experiencing cognitive decline due to dementia, he or she may need to be supervised in order to use the kitchen safely. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of exceptional dementia care provided by the dedicated professionals at Home Care Assistance of Richmond. Families can rely on our professional caregivers to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life. 

Increase Overall Home Security and Emergency Preparedness

Beyond preventing falls and injuries, consider your loved one’s overall security and ability to get help when needed.

Communication and emergency systems:

• Install a medical alert system with 24/7 monitoring.

• Ensure all phones are easily accessible and consider cordless options.

• Program important numbers into speed dial.
• Post emergency contact information in visible locations.

Home security measures:

• Install adequate exterior lighting with motion sensors.

• Ensure door locks are easy to operate but secure.

• Consider a video doorbell system.
• Remove or secure any weapons that could pose a danger.

Medication organization:

• Set up a pill organizer system with clear daily compartments.

• Remove expired medications safely.

• Ensure prescription labels are large and easy to read.
• Consider automatic pill dispensers for complex medication schedules.

Create Comfortable and Accessible Living Spaces

The final step involves making sure your loved one can navigate and enjoy the living space comfortably.

Furniture and layout considerations:

• Choose chairs and sofas with firm cushions and arms for easier standing.

• Ensure furniture is at appropriate heights.

• Create clear, wide pathways between rooms.

• Remove or secure furniture with sharp edges.

Technology and convenience:

• Install remote controls for lights, fans, and entertainment systems.

• Consider voice-activated devices for hands-free operation.

• Ensure thermostats are easily accessible and readable.
• Install lever-style door handles instead of round knobs.

Making these modifications doesn’t require a complete home renovation. Start with the most critical safety issues and gradually implement additional changes. Many of these improvements not only enhance safety but also help seniors maintain their independence and dignity while aging in place.

For many Richmond seniors, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Home Care Assistance, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.