Many seniors desire to age in place, so it's essential their homes are safe, secure, and comfortable. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes aging in place as “the ability to live in one's own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” Unfortunately, many seniors don't have the safety and security they need to meet that criteria in their homes.

A recent study by the CDC finds that nearly 30 percent of adults over 65 report falling at least once in the last year—most occurring in their homes. Eliminating hazards, making safety modifications, and investing in the latest technology can help prevent many of these accidents. To help make aging in place safer and more comfortable, the pros at Mr. Handyman® utilized their extensive experience and remodeling expertise to develop this home safety checklist for seniors living at home which is invaluable.

Home Safety Checklist for Seniors

Preventing falls and other accidents for seniors living at home is critical, and many find that their living arrangement doesn't support their changing needs. Fortunately, there are affordable solutions to help create homes that meet the unique needs of the aging.

From better lighting to less clutter to harnessing the power of technology—there are many ways to avoid accidents and get help quickly when mishaps occur. Put this elderly home safety checklist to work and create a safer, more convenient, and comfortable environment.

Entryways

Part of your elderly home safety checklist should be updating or increasing lighting in and near entryways to create greater visibility for seniors living at home. While these modifications don't necessarily require rewiring or the help of an electrician, many seniors opt to hire a professional handyman in their area for the job. Here are a few other ways to make entryways safer.

  • Bright, motion-sensing lights on the exterior
  • Clutter-free walkways
  • Wheelchair and accessibility ramps
  • Grab bars near the doors
  • Easy to lock and unlock exterior and storm doors

Living Room

Living areas like dens and living rooms are spaces where seniors spend much of their time. Your elderly home safety checklist should include creating safer and more comfortable living areas can be as simple as reducing the amount of furniture and clutter for greater mobility. Here are other ideas to make these spaces convenient to use and safe.

  • Furniture with rounded corners
  • Non-slip area rugs
  • Covered or re-routed electric cords
  • Remote-controlled lighting and temperature control
  • Strategically placed grab bars and transfer poles

Stairways

Seniors living in homes with multiple levels face additional challenges to mobility and safety. Stairways can be difficult to navigate as we age and cause slips and falls that can lead to serious injury. If lack of mobility is already an issue, a stair lift can be an ideal solution for safely traversing stairs. Make sure you add other ways to make stairs more safe in your elderly home safety checklist.

  • Adequate lighting at the top and bottom of stairways with wall switches
  • Handrails on both sides of stairs
  • Non-slip or carpeted stair treads
  • Access ramps on short stair runs
  • Reflective tape to distinguish risers from treads
  • Small motion-activated lights placed in the corner of each step

Bedroom

Bedroom safety for seniors means clutter-free walkways, proper lighting, and easy access to essential devices. Many seniors rely on medical and monitoring devices and smartphones that should be conveniently located and charged. Set up a charging station next to the bed and implement these safety tips for peace of mind.

  • Emergency numbers next to the bed and phone
  • A bed rail to provide support for getting in and out of bed
  • Nightlights or motion-sensor lights for nighttime bathroom visits
  • Non-slip rugs on hard surface floors

Kitchen

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for home safety, especially in the kitchen. A home safety checklist for seniors should have these devices should be checked periodically to ensure they work correctly. Detectors that feature audio and visual alarms can provide more safety for seniors with hearing or visual challenges. To prevent falls, burns, and other accidents, implement these safety features in addition to detectors.

  • Non-slip floor coverings on hard surface floors
  • Bright lighting overhead and beneath range hoods and cabinets
  • Rubberized cutting boards and cut-resistant gloves
  • Clutter-free counters
  • Plastic drinking and serving items instead of glass
  • Well-maintained and clean kitchen vents

Bathrooms

Falls in a bathroom are more likely to result in injury than in other rooms because of the many hard surfaces. Bathrooms are also notorious for being slippery places, and non-slip mats in the tub, shower, and on floors are ideal for firm footing. Investing in a walk-in tub and the following features can provide additional safety and convenience.

  • Grab bars near the shower, tub, and toilet
  • Non-slip shower seats
  • Install shower seat
  • Bright lighting overhead and motion-sensor lights for nighttime
  • Raised toilet seats or higher toilets
  • Safe water heater temperature

Invest in Technology to Make Your Home a Safe Haven for Seniors

Technology should be an essential part of an elderly home safety checklist. Modern technology like smartphones and medical alert systems provide safety and peace of mind, especially for seniors living alone. A smartphone may be the single most critical technology for seniors. Numerous models designed for older adults feature lighted keypads, larger buttons, and more user-friendly features. Some smartphones also feature a built-in medical alert system that seniors can access with a single button.

Medical alert devices are convenient, comfortable to wear, and easy to use in case of an accident or emergency. Most monitoring systems work 24/7 and can give seniors a greater sense of independence and security. GPS devices provide pinpoint locations and work without access to the internet or other wireless services. These devices are simple but powerful and are particularly useful to keep seniors with Alzheimer's or other cognitive issues more connected and safe.

Safety for Seniors at Home is Easier With Mr. Handyman

Some of the items in this home safety checklist for seniors can be implemented with the help of family and friends, but it's best to consult the pros for grab bars, lighting, ramps, and other critical elements. Your local Mr. Handyman is experienced in modifying homes to create safer and more comfortable environments for seniors.

We feature professionals with an average of 10 years of experience who provide handyman services for nearly every home repair and maintenance need. When you partner with Mr. Handyman, the Neighborly Done Right Promise™ ensures you get the quality and expertise your home deserves. Discover how your local Mr. Handyman can help seniors living at home stay safe when you get a personalized quote.