Advancing Aging at Home, One Home at a Time.
10 Simple Things You Can Do to Make Your Parent’s Home Safer
10 tips to make your parents home safer
Happy Homes Community Solutions
10/26/20251 min read
10 Simple Things You Can Do to Make Your Parent’s Home Safer
When we think about helping our parents age safely, it is easy to imagine expensive renovations, major lifestyle changes, or difficult conversations.
But often, the best place to start is much smaller.
Walk through their home with fresh eyes. Think about the places they use every single day: the bathroom, the bedroom, the kitchen, the stairs and the path they take to the washroom in the middle of the night.
Here are 10 simple things families can check today.
Look at the rugs. If they slide, curl at the corners or bunch up easily, secure them properly or consider removing them altogether.
Check the bathroom floor. Wet bathroom surfaces can become slippery very quickly. Non-slip mats or traction products can help.
Improve nighttime lighting. Add motion-sensor lights between the bedroom, bathroom, hallway and stairs.
Clear walking pathways. Shoes, cords, small tables and other everyday items can easily become trip hazards.
Check the stairs. Make sure stairways are well lit and handrails feel secure.
Think about the shower. If standing for long periods is becoming tiring, a shower chair or bath seat may make bathing easier.
Consider grab bars. Properly installed grab bars can provide additional support near the shower, bathtub and toilet.
Look at their footwear. Slippers without grip or loose-fitting shoes can make walking around the home less stable.
Put frequently used items within easy reach. Nobody should have to climb on a chair to reach a plate, medication or everyday household item.
Ask them what feels difficult. This may be the most important step. Your parent knows their home and their body better than anyone.
And remember: the goal is not to take over their home.
It is to help make the home they already love continue working for them.safer home does not always require a complete renovation. Sometimes, a few thoughtful changes can make everyday life feel easier, safer and more comfortable.
