As our parents age, it’s important to make sure that their home is safe and secure to help them maintain their independence and quality of life. Aging adults are prone to falls, which can cause serious injury and discomfort, so it’s crucial to assess every aspect of their living space to help mitigate potential risks. 

Here are some tips to help make your home safe for your aging parents.

Free Your Home from Trip and Fall Hazards

A home that is cluttered and disorganized can be a potential hazard for aging parents. They may have difficulty navigating around piles of items or trip on loose rugs. It is imperative to eliminate tripping hazards by organizing the home and getting rid of unnecessary clutter. 

Remove loose rugs or add anti-slip padding to the underside to hold them in place. Opt for furniture with rounded edges instead of sharp angles. Also, make sure that stairs are secure and have handrails for additional support.

Install a Chair Lift

Stairs can be the most challenging obstacle for aging parents. A chair lift can be an essential feature for a house with multiple levels. A chair lift is a motorized device that travels up and down the stairs, making it easier for your parents to move around without having to strain themselves. 

A chair lift installation can be a good investment because it provides added security and comfort and ensures that stairs do not become a challenge.

Put Nightlights in Hallways and Bathrooms

As we age, our vision tends to deteriorate, making it harder to see in dimly lit areas. It is imperative to make sure your parent’s house is adequately lit, making it easier to navigate. 

Add nightlights in the hallways, bathrooms, and other areas where they could be at risk of tripping or stumbling in the dark. It helps prevent falls, plus it provides added security and comfort.

Keep Food Grade Gloves

As we age, our immune system may not be as strong, making us susceptible to infections and diseases. Germs can be present on surfaces that we come into contact with, so it’s essential to minimize the spread of germs. 

Keeping food grade gloves at home will reduce the risk of transmission, especially during meal preparation and serving. Ensure that the gloves are easily accessible and changed regularly.

Declutter the Home

Clutter can cause frustration and anxiety for anyone, but it can be especially detrimental to aging parents. A cluttered home can make it hard for them to move around quickly, and they may struggle to complete everyday tasks independently. 

Decluttering the home will help promote positivity and create an organized living environment. Start by getting rid of items that are no longer needed, and then organize what is left.

Place Emergency Buttons throughout the House

In the case of an emergency, having an emergency button readily available can make all the difference. Installing emergency buttons throughout the house can be lifesaving and will allow your parents to call for help if they are unable to reach their phone. 

You can install these buttons in conspicuous places like the bedroom, living room, and bathroom. They should be in an area that is easily accessible and straightforward to use.