Top 3 Hazards in Your Aging Parent’s Home (and How to Fix Them)

As your parents age, their home environment can become more challenging to navigate. Falls, injuries, and accidents in the home are common causes of hospitalization for older adults. Identifying and fixing hazards early can help keep your loved one safe and prevent costly and traumatic incidents. Here are the top 3 hazards in your aging parent’s home and practical ways to address them.

1. Trip Hazards: Rugs, Cords, and Clutter

The Issue:
Loose rugs, cords, and general clutter are among the most common causes of falls in the home. As balance and mobility decline with age, something as simple as a rug slipping or an extension cord can lead to a dangerous fall.

How to Fix It:

• Remove or Secure Rugs: If rugs are essential, use non-slip rug pads underneath them. Consider getting rid of rugs altogether in high-traffic areas.
• Organize Cords: Tuck cords behind furniture, or use cord organizers to keep them safely out of the way.
• Declutter: Regularly declutter high-traffic areas, including hallways and stairs. Keep pathways clear of furniture, boxes, or personal items.

2. Poor Lighting and Visibility

The Issue:
As vision deteriorates with age, inadequate lighting can become a serious hazard. Shadows, dark spots, or low-light conditions can make it difficult for your loved one to see obstacles or safely navigate stairs and hallways.

How to Fix It:

• Increase Lighting: Ensure that all areas of the home, especially hallways, stairways, and entryways, are well-lit. Use brighter bulbs or install additional light sources.
• Install Motion-Activated Lights: In places like bathrooms and hallways, motion-activated lights can make it easier for your parent to move around without fumbling for switches in the dark.
• Use Nightlights: Place nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and along hallways to illuminate paths during the night, especially if your parent gets up frequently.

3. Bathroom Slipperiness and Inaccessibility

The Issue:
The bathroom can be one of the most dangerous rooms in the house for older adults. Wet floors and slippery surfaces are common culprits, along with the difficulty of safely getting in and out of the shower or bathtub.

How to Fix It:

• Install Grab Bars: In the shower, tub, and near the toilet, install sturdy grab bars to offer support when standing or sitting.(We know people in Ottawa who can help with this)
• Use Non-Slip Mats or Rugs: Place non-slip mats or rugs in the bathroom to reduce the risk of slipping. Be sure they are securely attached to the floor.
• Consider a Walk-In Tub or Shower Seat: If your parent struggles to step over the tub’s edge, consider installing a walk-in tub or adding a shower seat to make bathing safer.

Taking the time to assess and modify your aging parent’s home can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries. Simple changes like improving lighting, securing rugs, and making the bathroom more accessible can have a profound impact on your parent’s safety and independence.

If you need guidance on further making your loved one’s home safer or are exploring other housing options, contact Tea & Toast for an Eldercare Strategy Session. We can help you create a personalized plan for your loved one’s needs, from home safety adjustments to retirement living options.

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