Safety upgrades for seniors’ homes

Many seniors want to reside in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible. According to AARP’s 2021 Home and Community Preferences Survey, more than three-quarters of U.S. adults ages 50 and older prefer living at home, but getting older often comes with certain deficits that may not make current living situations the safest for seniors.

Retirement Living reports that an older person is treated in an emergency room for a fall-related injury nearly once every 10 seconds. Falls cause millions of injuries and 32,000 deaths per year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Seniors may be affected by low vision, mobility limitations, cognitive decline, balance issues and loss of muscle strength, thus requiring adaptations to stay in their homes, particularly in older homes that have not been renovated.

Change knobs to levers. Levers are much easier for people who have arthritis or lack dexterity in their hands. Doorknobs and faucet knobs can be replaced with levers.

Create zero-threshold entryways. Flush entries on doorways and showers do not require crossing a lip or raised barrier, making it easy for people with mobility issues to use scooters, walkers or wheelchairs.

Clear clutter/move obstructions. One inexpensive modification is to remove extraneous furniture and accessories to widen walking spaces and accommodate walkers and wheelchairs. Push furniture to the room’s perimeter to make moving around easier, and remove area rugs, which are often tripping hazards.

Install grab rails and supports. Adding grab rails in the bathroom near the toilet and in the shower can help a person use those facilities without assistance. Install a grab rail close to seating in the kitchen to add support.

Consider smart lighting. Motion-activated or darkness-activated lighting fixtures can improve visibility. Also, rocker light switches are easier to maneuver than standard toggles.

Invest in a stairlift. For seniors who live in multistory homes, a stairlift makes the home more accessible, according to Elder, an eldercare service provider, making it easier to traverse staircases and reduce the risk for falls.

These are just a few of the home modifications that can help seniors safely age in place.