Home Safety Tips for Welcoming Senior Loved Ones

With an aging loved one moving in, it’s important to make your home a safe and comfortable environment. The right adjustments can reduce accidents, increase mobility, and give everyone peace of mind. Here are some practical safety tips to transform your home into a senior-friendly space. 

Clear Pathways

One of the biggest hazards for elderly individuals is cluttered or obstructed pathways. Items like furniture, rugs, and cords can create tripping risks. 

• Remove unnecessary furniture to create wide, open walkways.

• Secure throw rugs with nonslip pads or eliminate them entirely.

• Keep cables and cords taped along walls or under furniture to prevent falls.
• Ensure all pathways are well lit, especially in hallways and staircases. Motion-sensitive nightlights are a great addition for nighttime mobility.

Taking these steps will make it easier for your loved one to move around safely without the risk of tripping or stumbling. 

Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality homecare. Trust Lifestar Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Install Grab Bars and Handrails

Bathrooms and staircases are high-risk areas for slips and falls. Installing grab bars and handrails is an effective way to add stability. 

• Place grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers. Make sure they’re securely mounted to support weight.

• Add handrails to both sides of staircases for extra support.

• Consider using nonslip mats in and around the bathtub or shower.
• For bathtubs, a shower chair and handheld showerhead can offer additional safety.

These simple installations can dramatically increase safety and help your loved one maintain independence. 

Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on. For these families, the perfect solution is respite care. Oklahoma City families rely on our caregivers whenever they need time to rest, work, run errands, and even go on vacation. 

Adapt the Kitchen

The kitchen can be a challenging area for elderly individuals, but a few adjustments can make it safer and more accessible. 

• Arrange frequently used items like plates, cups, and utensils at an easy-to-reach height. Avoid storing essentials in high or low cabinets.

• Use anti-scald devices on faucets and ensure the water heater is set to a safe temperature (120°F or lower) to avoid burns.

• Opt for appliances with clear, large controls that are easy to read and operate.
• Keep the floor dry and free of clutter to prevent slips.

By creating a user-friendly kitchen, you can help your loved one confidently and safely engage in daily meal preparation. 

Ensure Bedroom Safety

The bedroom should be a haven of comfort and ease. Here are a few measures to enhance safety in sleeping areas. 

• Use a bed that’s low enough for your loved one to climb in and out of easily. Add a handrail on the side if needed.

• Place a sturdy nightstand within reach to keep essentials like water, glasses, and a phone handy.

• Improve lighting with bedside lamps or touch-activated lights.
• Keep the floor clear of objects like shoes, clothes, or electrical cords.

A safe and cozy bedroom setup can promote restful nights and smoother mornings. 

Enhance Entryways and Accessibility

The entryway is the first place your loved one will experience in the home, so it’s important to make it safe and easy to access. 

 

• Add a ramp if stairs make getting in and out of the house challenging. Portable ramps are a cost-effective option.

• Install motion-sensor lights or brighter bulbs outside entrances for better visibility.

• Ensure the door handle or locks are easy to use. Lever-style handles are often better than knobs for those with arthritis.
• Place a nonslip doormat at the entryway to reduce the risk of falls.

By optimizing entryways, you make each arrival and departure smooth and stress-free. Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to ensure your loved one enjoys a high quality of life in the comfort of home. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care. Oklahoma City families can turn to Lifestar Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. To hire a professionally