7 Home Upgrades to Increase Senior Home Safety

A home is meant to be a safe haven for anyone in the household. However, as people age, they become increasingly susceptible to injuries in the home. A trip to the kitchen can be enough to cause a severe fall, and many seniors end up in the hospital every year as a result of an accident in the home. 

Common places such as bathrooms, stairs, kitchens, or living rooms can become hazardous for seniors. Thankfully, there are a lot of things you can do to make your home safe and comfortable for aging loved ones. It all depends on what safety risks are most prevalent in your home. 

Home Upgrades to Invest In to Increase Home Safety for Seniors

If you're wondering what you can do to increase safety for seniors in your home, you're in luck. In this article, we will discuss seven home upgrades that will help keep seniors safe and secure.

Grab Bars

One way to make your home senior-friendly is to install grab bars in strategic locations. Grab bars provide support and stability for seniors who are at risk of falling. They can be installed in the shower, next to the toilet, and other areas where seniors need extra support.

You can also install grab bars outside the home, next to the front door or in the garage. This will give seniors extra support when they are entering and exiting the house.

Home Security System

Security systems are a great way to increase safety for seniors. They can deter burglars and provide peace of mind for aging loved ones who live alone. Many home security systems now come with features that allow seniors to call for help in the event of an emergency. 

In addition to a home security system, homes with seniors should also have personal alarms, fire alarms, and smoke alarms. These alarms can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Stairlifts or Ramps

If your home has stairs, it's essential to consider installing a stairlift or ramp. These devices can help seniors safely navigate their homes and avoid falls. Stairlifts and ramps can be custom-designed to fit your home's layout and needs.

Stairlifts will help seniors or those with mobility issues safely get up and down the stairs. You can place ramps at the entrance of your home to make it easier for seniors to come and go as they please.

Widened Doorways

Another way to make your home more senior-friendly is to widen doorways. This will allow seniors to move around more easily and prevent them from getting stuck in doorways. Widening doorways is a relatively simple and inexpensive home improvement project.

Widened doorways are excellent for those who get around their home in wheelchairs or walkers. They can also be helpful for those who have mobility issues and need a little extra space to move around.

Motion Sensor Lights

Motion sensor lights are a great way to increase safety for seniors. They can help seniors see in the dark and make it easier to navigate their homes. Motion sensor lights can also deter burglars and provide peace of mind for aging loved ones.

Motion sensor lights can also help lower your electricity bill. Many models are designed only to turn on when they sense movement, so you won't have to worry about leaving the lights on all day or night.

Walk-In Tubs

Walk-in tubs are a great way to make your bathroom safe for seniors. They provide support and stability for seniors who are at risk of falling. Walk-in tubs also have many features that make them safer and more comfortable for seniors, including grab bars, non-slip surfaces, and built-in seats.

A walk-in tub also has various benefits and features. For example, they're excellent for hydrotherapy and can help with pain relief, circulation, and relaxation. They also come in various sizes and styles to fit any bathroom. Overall, they provide a safer bathing experience and can make a big difference in the quality of life for seniors.

Non-Slip Flooring

Another way to increase senior home safety is to install non-slip flooring. This is especially important in the bathroom and kitchen, where slippery surfaces can be hazardous. Non-slip flooring can help seniors avoid falls and make it easier to move around their homes.

In addition, you should always keep your homes free of clutter to avoid any tripping hazards. If you have rugs, you should consider securing them to the floor with double-sided tape or non-slip pads.

Final Words

Aging in place can be a challenge, but making your home safe for seniors is important. There are many ways to do this, and the seven listed above are just some of the most effective. If you have an aging loved one, take the time to assess their home and see what changes can be made to increase safety. 

A little bit of effort now can make a big difference down the road. With the right home upgrades, you and your loved ones can age in place safely and comfortably. Although some upgrades might seem a bit pricy, they'll be worth it in the long run. 

Not to mention, many of them can add value to your home. For example, a stairlift or ramp can make your home more accessible and appealing to potential buyers. Motion sensor lights and alarm systems can also be appealing to homebuyers. Walk-in tubs are also a luxurious feature that can make your home stand out from the rest.

So, if you're looking for ways to make your home more senior-friendly, don't forget to consider these seven home safety upgrades. They might be what you need to ensure a safe and comfortable home for your aging loved ones. So, not only will you be making your home safer for seniors, but you'll also be increasing its value. 

There are many things to consider when it comes to senior home safety. But with a little bit of effort, you can make your home safe and comfortable for aging loved ones. So, if you're thinking about making some changes, don't wait any longer. These seven home upgrades will help keep your aging loved ones safe and sound.