Making a Home Safer for an Older Adult

Why it matters

A fall can lead to broken bones, including a broken hip. That is why the CDC puts so much weight on prevention. The good news is that many of the fixes are simple.

Start with a walk-through

Walk through each room with the person who lives there. Look for things to trip over, dim spots and things that are hard to reach. The CDC offers a checklist you can follow.

Floors and walkways

• Clear clutter, cords and small items from the paths people walk.
• Remove throw rugs, or put nonslip pads under every rug.
• Add non-slip strips on tile and wood floors.
• Keep thresholds, the strips between rooms, even and flat.

Stairs

• Keep steps clear of items.
• Fix loose or broken steps.
• Put sturdy railings on both sides.

Bathroom

• Put grab bars by the toilet and in or near the tub or shower.
• Use a non-slip mat or strips in the tub or shower.
• Keep towels, soap and shampoo close at hand.

Kitchen and living room

• Keep the things people use every day at an easy height, so no one has to climb or stretch.
• Arrange furniture so the paths between rooms are wide and clear.
• Wipe up spills right away.

Bedroom

• Put a night light near the bed.
• Keep a phone within reach of the bed.
• If the bed is very low, ask about raising it.
• Use a reach tool instead of standing on a chair.
• Make sure armchairs and step stools are steady.
• Wear shoes or slippers that fit well and grip the floor, not socks.

Light and outdoors

• Use more or brighter bulbs, especially on stairs and in hallways.
• Keep steps and walkways outside clear of ice, snow and debris.
• Make sure the entry steps are well lit and have a sturdy rail.

Beyond the house

The home is only part of the picture. The CDC suggests asking a doctor about fall risk and having a doctor or pharmacist review all medicines. Ask about bone health too. For any health question, talk to a doctor.

Eyes should be checked once a year. If the person wears bifocals, ask the eye doctor whether a separate pair for walking outside would help. Exercise that builds leg strength and balance also lowers risk, so ask a doctor what is right for the person.

Check again when things change

Walk through the home again after a hospital stay, an illness or any change in how the person moves. Needs can change, and a fix that worked last year may not be enough now.

Post emergency phone numbers near the phone. If the person does fall, tell their doctor, even if they seem fine.

Make changes together

The home belongs to the person who lives there. Talk with them about what you see and why a change might help. Start with the easiest fixes, like a night light or a loose rug, and build from there.

Next step

Sparrow Haven Home Care provides non-medical in-home care, including Companion Care (conversation, activities, meaningful engagement and safety observation) and Homemaking and Meal Support (light housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation and organization). Every client gets an individualized consultation before services are finalized. Call (734) 436-3770 or schedule a consultation .

More guides

• What Is Non-Medical Home Care?
• Questions to Ask When Choosing a Home Care Provider
• Planning Respite for Family Caregivers