How to Make Your Home Safe for Aging Parents

Falls are the number one cause of injury-related hospitalizations among adults over 65. The good news: most home falls are preventable. A systematic room-by-room safety review — ideally done before a fall occurs — can significantly reduce risk and extend the time your parent can safely live at home.

Bathroom Safety

The bathroom is the most dangerous room in the house for seniors. Start here. Install grab bars next to the toilet and inside the shower or tub — they should be anchored into wall studs, not just drywall. Add a non-slip mat inside the tub and a bath bench or shower chair so your parent doesn't have to stand the entire time. Raise the toilet seat with an elevated seat insert if needed, and ensure the floor outside the tub is dry-safe with a textured bath mat.

Bedroom Modifications

The path from bed to bathroom at night is a common fall site. Install motion-activated night lights along this path. Position the bed at an appropriate height — not too low, not too high — so your parent can sit on the edge with feet flat on the floor. Remove throw rugs (a major tripping hazard) and secure any loose carpet edges. Keep a phone and a glass of water on the nightstand.

Kitchen Safety

Reorganize frequently used items to countertop level so your parent doesn't need to reach up or bend down for daily needs. If your parent is prone to forgetting the stove, consider an automatic stove shutoff device. Remove clutter from walkways, and ensure the floor is dry and non-slip near the sink.

Stairs and Entryways

Ensure handrails run the full length of any stairs and are secure. If your parent struggles with stairs, consider whether a stairlift is appropriate. At the front entry, make sure the path from the car to the door is well-lit and clear of obstructions. A grab bar at the front door can provide support when entering and exiting.

Use our free Home Safety Checklist for a complete room-by-room audit you can complete in an afternoon.