Find It After Fifty

As we age, making small adjustments to our homes can greatly enhance safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Whether you’re planning to age in place or simply want to reduce risks around the house, these five practical steps will help make your home a safer place to live.

1. Improve Lighting Throughout Your Home

Poor lighting can increase the risk of falls, which are a leading cause of injury among older adults. Brighten up your home by:

• Installing motion-activated night lights in hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
• Using LED bulbs for brighter, energy-efficient lighting.
• Ensuring stairways and entryways are well-lit.

2. Reduce Tripping Hazards

Clutter and loose rugs can be dangerous obstacles. To minimize the risk of trips and falls:

• Secure rugs with non-slip pads or remove them entirely.
• Keep floors clear of cords, shoes, and other objects.
• Install handrails on both sides of staircases.

3. Upgrade Bathroom Safety Features

Bathrooms can be particularly hazardous due to wet, slippery surfaces. Increase safety by:

• Adding grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or tub.
• Using a non-slip mat or adhesive strips in the bathtub.
• Installing a walk-in tub or a shower seat for added convenience.

4. Enhance Home Security

Protecting yourself from intruders and scams is just as important as preventing falls. Secure your home by:

• Installing smart locks and video doorbells to monitor visitors.
• Using a home security system with emergency alerts.
• Avoiding sharing too much personal information with strangers at the door or online.

5. Keep Emergency Essentials Handy

Being prepared for emergencies can save valuable time. Make sure you have:

• A list of emergency contacts near each phone.
• Easily accessible medical alert systems or wearable emergency buttons.
• Flashlights in multiple rooms in case of power outages.

Final Thoughts

Taking these simple but effective steps can make a big difference in maintaining a safe and comfortable home environment. Whether you’re planning ahead or making adjustments after a close call, investing in home safety now ensures peace of mind for years to come.