Cozy and Safe: Top Safety Tips for Seniors Living at Home

As we get older, we realize just how often we’ve taken the concept of living in our own home for granted. For many seniors, staying independent and comfortable in a space that feels like you is a priority. In order to make this a reality, however, making your home safe and secure is the first step.With a few smart tweaks, seniors can make their homes a secure haven while enjoying their freedom.

Why Home Safety Feels So Important

 As we age, our home begins to feel like a haven for all of the wonderful memories we have created throughout or lives. No matter how much we enjoy our home, the simple fact remains that the risk of in-home accidents continues to increase the older we get. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the top cause of injuries for folks over 65, with over 14 million happening each year. While these statistics may feel troubling, a proactive mindset and can-do attitude will help you get inspired to keep your home safe and comfortable for years to come.

How To Keep Falls at Bay with Simple Fixes

Nobody wants a tumble to ruin their day. To help minimize risk, clear out clutter like stray cords or loose rugs that might trip you up. Investing in grab bars for the bathroom is a great idea. You can place these near the toilet and in the shower for a little extra support. Non-slip mats in the tub and bright lights in hallways or staircases can work wonders. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) loves motion-sensor lights for nighttime trips to the kitchen or bathroom. If stairs are tricky, think about a ramp or stairlift to keep things smooth.

Pro Tip: Check that furniture is sturdy, and anchor tall shelves to the wall so they don’t tip over.

Make the Kitchen a Safe Haven

The kitchen feels like the heart of the home, but it can become more of a risk for seniors with sharp knives or hot stoves. Keep everyday items like plates or mugs within easy reach so you don’t have to climb stools or ladders. Lightweight pots and pans with non-slip grips will definitely help reduce the risk of dropping anything heavy on your feet or breaking them on your kitchen floor. Research the features of your appliances to learn more about any auto-shutoff feature available to you. These are common on appliances like toasters, add they can add valuable peace of mind.

Always remember to swap out smoke detector batteries twice a year. This is a key recommendation from U.S. Fire Administration, and could end up being lifesaver in the event of an unintended accident. For forgetful moments, a stove monitor can alert someone if the burner’s left on too long.

Create a Worry-Free Bathroom

Bathrooms can be slippery, but they don’t have to be a risk to your health or safety. A raised toilet seat makes sitting and standing easier, and non-slip mats inside and outside the shower keep things steady. A walk-in shower or low-step tub is a game-changer. Keep towels and soaps close by to avoid reaching. A waterproof medical alert pendant, recommended by AARP, can be a lifesaver if you need help fast.

Lock in Your Home Security Options

Feeling safe at home means knowing no unwanted guests can waltz in. Add deadbolt locks to doors and maybe a smart doorbell with a camera to see who’s knocking. Motion-activated lights outside keep things bright and scare off trouble. The U.S. Department of Justice suggests a security system for extra protection.

Don’t forget to lean on trusty neighbors for regular check-ins. Your neighbors can become one of the most powerful safety nets at your disposal if you make it happen!

Make Your Home a Launchpad for Your Future

Safety isn’t just about the house you live in. It’s about feeling like you have great experiences and memories right around the corner. Put as much effort into your own body and mind as your home. Regular checkup with your doctors will help keep your eyes, ears, and balance in check. Many senior citizens enjoy gentle exercises like walking or yoga. According to the NIA suggests, these can help boost strength and steadiness.

If you make the decision to stay healthy and social, you’ll be amazed by how fulfilling each day can become in your own home.

About Valley Home Care

Valley Home Care is a trusted provider of in-home senior care services in Fresno, Modesto, and surrounding Central Valley areas. We are  dedicated to helping seniors live safely and comfortably in their own homes. We work exclusively with a team of compassionate, expertly trained caregivers who offer personalized support for seniors.

These include assistance with daily tasks like bathing, meal preparation, medication reminders, and companionship, as well as 24-hour care options.