Aging in place: Home safety for older adults

Many people prefer the idea of remaining in the comfort of their own home as they age. While older adults are living at home, both they and their caregivers need to consider all the obstacles and issues that may arise, particularly as they relate to mobility and safety.

With that in mind, here are some options to consider when updating a home for aging in place. 

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What is aging in place?

Aging in place means an adult remains in their own home — not at an assisted living facility or a nursing home — during the later years of their life.

Where that home is might be flexible. It could be the house they grew up in, the "forever home" where they raised a family or the downsized space they moved into, like an apartment or townhouse.

Aging in place could also mean moving in with friends or a family member to enjoy both a sense of independence and community support.

Challenges of at-home care

Even though a living situation might seem safe enough for the time being, it may not be equipped for all the changes that come with age.

The leading cause of injury for adults age 65 and older is falls. About 1 in 4 older adults report falling every year. Sensory impairments are another challenge. These impairments may include everything from impaired hearing and vision to changes in how things taste or feel.

About 40 percent of all U.S. homes have the minimum features to be considered "aging ready." That means they include features like a step-free entryway, plus a bedroom and full bathroom on the first floor.

The potential for falls and other accidents can be reduced by making a few improvements to the home. 

Seniors living independently

While family and friends can become caregivers for many older adults, those who don't have a robust social network may be able to lean on community resources. Anyone looking for support can start by contacting their local or state office for aging or social services.

Whether or not a carer will be checking in regularly, it’s important to make sure all the recommended safety measures are in place. 

Home safety measures

Staying safe at home means preventing falls and improving accessibility. Here's information about safety measures for different rooms in the home.

General home safety

Most at-home safety revolves around helping to prevent falls, especially if someone plans to age in place in a home with stairs. For one, it's important to have secure handrails on both sides of every staircase in the home, whether they lead to a basement or an outdoor patio.

Good lighting (both overhead and lamps) can also help prevent tripping. Even better? Motion-activated outlet lights, which illuminate hallways and stairwells in the home when they sense movement.

It’s also important to be mindful of tripping hazards. Get rid of shoes, clothes or any other clutter on the floor or stairs. Keep cords tucked away and put no-slip or nonskid mats or strips on any tile and wooden floors. Throw rugs and small area rugs should be avoided.

Bedroom safety

In the bedroom, keep access to lighting close at hand. Nightlights and motion-activated lights can be helpful here as well.

For the cama itself: Consider a mattress and bedframe that put the bed at an accessible height, which is anywhere from 20 to 23 inches from the floor to the top of the mattress. Además, bed accessories can be added for optimal comfort and security.

In case of an emergency, it’s important to keep a landline or well-charged cell phone on the nightstand, as well as a flashlight in the event of a power outage.

Seguridad en el baño

The bathroom is a place in the home where falls may often happen. Some easy ways to help prevent falls include adding a built-in seat in the shower or bath, installing grab bars and using an elevated toilet seat.

A walk-in shower can also help mitigate the risk of falling, since a person doesn’t have to climb over a tub wall.

Kitchen safety

For older adults, reaching for kitchen cabinets and other items can be challenging and even dangerous, which is why optimizing the kitchen accordingly can be helpful.

Consider installing easy-to-reach cabinets or shelving and swapping small knobs for handle-style pulls. It may also be a good idea to switch sink knobs to levers or handles. Using reach sticks to reach items could also be useful.

Adults age 65 or older are at a higher risk of injury or death from kitchen fires because of sensory impairments and physical limitations. Always keep potholders or oven mitts nearby when using the stove. An automatic shut-off switch on the stove can offer even more peace of mind.

While all the above are good first steps, it’s best to discuss options with a health care provider, as every home, person and living situation is unique. 

Technology and assistive devices

The rise of smart devices - both for streamlining household tasks and monitoring personal health - can make aging in place more accessible. Here are some options for aging adults and their families to consider.

Smart home devices

Smart home devices — like voice-controlled virtual assistants, video doorbells and automated lighting — are convenient for many, but they can be a true game-changer for older adults.

These technologies may help people aging in place maintain their independence.

Medical alert systems

These days, there are several types of personal emergency response systems, including the kind worn on a necklace or wristband with a button that can be pressed in case of emergency and other versions that can detect fall-like movements and call for help immediately.

With these, aging adults might be able to get help faster in the event of an emergency, like a hard fall with no easy way of getting up.

That said, these personal safety devices might not be for everyone. For instance, people with memory loss might press the button when it's not actually needed. It's best to talk to a health care provider about options.

Home blood pressure monitor

Un at-home blood pressure monitor - like the cuff used during a physical exam - is an easy way to track blood pressure and check if it's within a normal range. This is important for older adults who experience low blood pressure or orthostatic hypotension and those who are taking blood pressure-lowering medications, as it could help them recognize when their pressure is too low and take steps to prevent a fall. That said, the most important thing is still to see a doctor regularly to ensure medication doses are appropriate if they're taking blood pressure medications.

At-home blood glucose monitors

For people managing diabetes, a glucose monitor can help detect low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). A blood glucose monitor will tell a person what their blood sugar is at that moment. Talk to a health care provider about if and how often someone needs to check their blood glucose levels.

Walking canes, rollators and walkers for seniors

Devices like canes and walkers may help reduce the risk of falling. The right option can depend on certain factors, like balance and leg strength, so talk to a health care provider to determine which might be best. There are many options of bastones y andadores to choose from. 

Downsizing considerations

Only about 40 percent of homes have basic features to be considered aging ready, so downsizing might be worthwhile. Eliminate the need for stairs by moving to an apartment or organize existing space so a person can live entirely on the first floor.

While aging in place is popular, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of the different living options. Before making a decision, older adults should speak with family, caregivers and potential service programs that can help them make a choice that may best fit their needs.

Este contenido es solo para fines informativos y no constituye un asesoramiento médico. Consulte con su proveedor de servicios de salud antes de tomar alguna vitamina o suplemento y antes de comenzar o cambiar alguna práctica relacionada con el cuidado de su salud.