How to Improve Your Home’s Safety as You Age

In the United States, more older adults live independently than anywhere else in the world. According to Pew Research, around 1 in 4 Americans over the age of 60 live alone. To maintain this independence, older adults need to modify their homes to make them safer places to live. 

While these improvements may be small, they can make a major difference when it comes to how long someone can stay in their home as they age. The team at Elder Law Lawyers is here to share some tips on how to improve your home’s safety as you age and maintain independence.

Tips to Improve Your Home’s Safety as an Older Adult

Everyone wants to stay in their home for as long as they can. But as we age, our homes may become less safe for us and not meet our daily needs as much as they used to. Here are some tips to improve home safety for older adults: 

1. Start in the Bathroom

Water from a shower or bathtub can quickly turn your bathroom from a personal oasis to a fall risk, especially for older adults with balance issues. Plumbing fixtures that are easier to use, like handheld showerheads and elevated toilets, can also increase safety and independence for older adults in the bathroom.

Adding a grab bar to a shower or bathtub can help you get in and out of those spaces easier. Also, if needed, a shower bench can allow you to bathe more comfortably and independently. If you prefer to shower standing up, a shower mat or nonslip strips can help you do that as well. 

2. Light Your Way

Our vision naturally declines with age. Improving your home’s lighting can help you see better while reading, cooking, or doing other household activities. From energy-efficient LED bulbs to smart lighting, you have many options for brighter, more eco-friendly lighting.

Improved lighting can also help you get around better and reduce the risk of tripping and falling. This is especially the case for outdoor lighting in your home’s entryway or garage. Motion-activated lighting can be useful in those spaces and add a sense of security to your home.

3. Remove Area Rugs

While an area rug can add a stylish element to your space, it can also increase your risk of tripping and falling. Removing these area rugs can reduce this risk. Consider opting for wall art if you desire a decorative touch. 

If you still want the warmth provided by a rug, consider installing carpet instead of hardwood flooring. The carpet will also provide a steadier surface to walk on when compared to other flooring options. 

4. Install Security Cameras

Security cameras can provide peace of mind to older adults who live alone. Doorbell cameras allow you to see who is at the door before you answer. You can also install a home security system that includes a camera. 

However, security cameras aren’t just limited to the outside of your home. Cameras can also be installed inside to help friends, caregivers, and family members to see that their loved one is safe at home. 

5. Get Smart

Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular, especially among older adults. Many of your home’s functions, like lighting and heating, can be automated or controlled from your smartphone or other connected device. Examples of these technologies include:

• Smart lighting
• Smart thermostats
• Keyless entry door locks 
• Personal assistant devices

While there is a learning curve to using these devices, they’re fairly easy to set up and use. Many older adults find they greatly improve their daily routine and quality of life. 

Keep Your Home Safe With Elder Law Lawyers

Making improvements to your home to meet your needs as you age is an important step for maintaining independence. However, if you ever do need long-term care, it’s crucial to protect your home from other threats, like Medicaid Estate Recovery. Elder Law Lawyers in Lexington, KY, can help you to do just that. Contact us today to learn more about your options when it comes to planning for your future.  

Protect Your Home in Kentucky With Elder Law Lawyers

While you may plan to stay at home as long as you can, it may not be possible due to age or health conditions. To learn how to protect your home from Medicaid and plan for long-term care, schedule a consultation with the team at Elder Law Lawyers. We’ll help you protect your assets and plan for the future. To get started, contact us online or call us at 859-543-0061.