Learn more about CFSS in Minnesota
As our loved ones age, they want to maintain independence by living at home, but safety
becomes more of a concern. For seniors, a safe living environment is crucial to retaining
well-being and preventing accidents.
This comprehensive guide offers practical advice and home safety tips for older adults, aiming
to make their homes safer, reduce possible risks, and provide peace of mind for family
members.
Making a home safe for elderly individuals can start with a thorough assessment, identifying
potential hazards, and implementing changes as necessary. This home safety checklist for older
adults will help address common causes of injury and accidents.
Tripping and slipping can be common for those with limited mobility, so it’s important to make
the living environment as safe as possible.
Eliminate Tripping Hazards: Remove area rugs or securely fasten them to the floor. Ensure
carpets do not bunch up and cause trips. Arrange furniture to create clear pathways, allowing
easy navigation and reducing fall risks.
Reduce Clutter: Remove unnecessary items from the floors and furniture and make sure there
are clear pathways around the home. Reference this helpful list if your loved one needs help
downsizing their belongings.
Enhance Accessibility: Install ramps with handrails at entrances to accommodate mobility
devices and facilitate safer movement.
Proper lighting is essential for preventing accidents and providing a sense of security.
Install Ample Lighting: Ensure all hallways, staircases, and bathrooms are well-lit. Night lights
can guide the way in the dark, and outdoor lighting, such as solar lights along pathways,
reduces the risk of outdoor falls.
Mark Staircases Clearly: Use colored tape or paint to mark the top and bottom steps, making
them easily visible. Handrails should be present and securely fastened on both sides of the
stairs.
Bathrooms can be dangerous for seniors due to slippery surfaces. Implementing basic safety
modifications can prevent accidents.
Install Grab Bars: Position grab bars near toilets and in showers or bathtubs to provide
support. Non-slip strips or mats in the bathtub add extra protection against falls.
Remodel Rooms: The bathroom and other rooms may need some modifications to make them
more accessible for your aging loved ones. Take a look at this list of 11 ideas for accessible
home renovations.
You should also address fire hazards in the home. Preventive measures can mitigate these
risks.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install detectors throughout the house and test
them regularly. There should also be a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen and garage.
Safe Cooking Practices: Avoid wearing loose clothing while cooking and never leave potential
fire sources unattended. Ensure cords are not frayed and avoid overloading electrical sockets.
Take the time to educate your elderly loved ones about common scams that target the elderly,
and make sure the house is secure from break-ins.
Protect the Home: Make sure the house has a strong security system to give you and your
loved ones peace of mind. They should know about keeping doors and windows locked and
never let a stranger into their home.
Guard Personal Information: Seniors should be cautious of fraud and scams, and learn how to
securely handle personal information. Read this helpful article for more information about
common frauds and scams that target seniors.
Have a plan in place! Knowing what to do when an emergency arrives will reduce anxiety.
Emergency Escape Plan: Develop a clear escape plan, practicing it with family members and
caregivers to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Easy Access to Help: Keeping a phone or emergency alarm device nearby allows for quick
access to assistance in case of a fall or other emergency.
By following these guidelines, you can help the seniors in your life create a safer, more secure
living environment that supports their independence. For more personalized advice and
assistance, Best Care is here to help with all your questions related to family caregiving.
