Creating a Safe Environment for Aging in Place

A survey conducted by AARP found that 77 percent of people aged 50 and older want to remain in their homes as they age. But wanting to stay and being set up to stay safely are two very different things.

Most homes, especially those built before 1990 were not designed with aging in mind. Narrow doorways, step-over tubs, stairs without handrails, and poor lighting are not just inconveniences. They are fall hazards that cause over 36 million falls among older adults every year in the United States, according to the CDC. The good news is that every one of these hazards is fixable. This guide walks through the five areas of your home that matter most for aging in place safely and what Liv Home Pros recommends addressing in each one.

Contact Liv Home Pros today to learn more about what we can do for you!

So What is Aging in Place?

Aging in place refers to the practice of remaining in your home as you enter the later stages of life. Many people are drawn to this for many reasons. Your home is a comfortable and familiar environment. To properly age in place, however, accessibility accommodations must be made so that the individual can move around and complete daily tasks safely.

Areas to Consider when Creating a Safe Home Environment

1. Stairs

Stairs can be one of the biggest obstacles for people aging in place. Whether they have limited mobility, are prone to falling, or have trouble getting around easily on their own, accessibility accommodations are crucial for homes with steps.

With a custom-designed stairlift, your loved one can safely, comfortably, and independently move up and down the stairs. No matter the layout of your existing home, our team can provide a free evaluation and remodeling services to better accommodate your new stair lift.

Vertical platform lifts are another incredible solution. They are technologically advanced, easy to use, and require little maintenance, which makes them a wonderful alternative to wheelchair ramps. VPLs are installed inside or outside the home, anywhere one needs to reach another level. The user simply enters the lift in their wheelchair, and the lift does the rest of the work.

Beyond equipment, stairs themselves need attention. Handrails should be present on both sides of every staircase and should be graspable, meaning a continuous, round or oval rail that the hand can fully wrap around. Many older homes have decorative flat-topped handrails that provide little actual grip in a fall. Stair treads should be non-slip, and any carpet on stairs should be tightly secured with no loose edges.

Adequate lighting at both the top and bottom of the staircase is also essential. Motion-activated lights that come on automatically are ideal for nighttime safety.

Liv Home Pros can assess your specific stair situation and recommend the right combination of modifications during a home evaluation.

2. Bathrooms

The bathroom is one of the most common places for slips and falls because wet, smooth surfaces can quickly become hazardous. Fortunately, a few accessibility improvements can make it much safer while supporting independent living.

One of the most effective upgrades is installing properly anchored grab bars near the shower, bathtub, and toilet. Grab bars should always be securely mounted into wall studs or approved structural backing so they can safely support body weight. Towel bars and suction-cup grab bars should never be used for balance.

If stepping over the side of a bathtub has become difficult, consider replacing it with a walk-in shower. A low- or zero-threshold shower, combined with a shower bench, handheld showerhead, and slip-resistant flooring, can significantly reduce fall risks while making bathing more comfortable.

Simple changes like adding non-slip mats, improving lighting, installing comfort-height toilets and ADA sinks can also make a meaningful difference.

Every home is different. During a professional home safety assessment, Liv Home Pros recommends personalized bathroom modifications that help homeowners throughout Rochester and Western New York age in place safely and confidently.

Visit our website for more information about Liv Home Pros mobility solutions.

3. Floors

Your flooring plays a major role in home safety. Slippery surfaces, uneven flooring, and loose rugs can all increase the risk of falls, especially for older adults with limited mobility.

If you have hardwood or tile floors, consider adding non-slip treatments or low-pile carpeting in high-traffic areas. Area rugs should be removed whenever possible or secured with non-slip backing to prevent them from shifting. Avoid thick or shag carpeting, as walkers and wheelchairs can become difficult to maneuver.

Keeping floors clear of clutter, cords, and other trip hazards is one of the simplest ways to create a safer home.

4. Beds

Getting in and out of bed safely can become more challenging with age or limited mobility. Adjustable care beds can make everyday activities easier by allowing users to raise or lower the head and legs for greater comfort, improved positioning, and easier transfers.

These beds can help reduce strain for both the individual and their caregiver while supporting greater independence. Bed assist rails and properly placed bedside lighting may also improve safety during nighttime movement.

5. Lighting

Good lighting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce fall risks at home. As we age, our eyes require more light to distinguish changes in flooring, steps, and other potential hazards, making dimly lit areas especially dangerous.

Pay close attention to the path between the bedroom and the bathroom, as many falls occur during nighttime trips. Motion-sensor night lights, bedside lamps that are easy to reach, and automatic bathroom lighting can help illuminate the way without the need to search for a light switch in the dark.

Other frequently used areas including hallways, stairways, closets, and entryways should also be well-lit. For staircases, make sure there is adequate lighting at both the top and bottom of the stairs so each step is clearly visible. Illuminated light switches are another simple upgrade that makes it easier to safely navigate the home, day or night.

Small lighting improvements can make a significant difference in helping older adults move around their homes with greater confidence and independence.

6. Entryways and Outdoor Access

A safe home begins at the front door. Steps, uneven walkways, high thresholds, and heavy doors can become significant obstacles as mobility changes, making it more difficult to safely enter and leave the home.

Creating a step-free entrance is one of the most effective ways to support aging in place. Depending on your home’s layout, this may include installing a wheelchair ramp, a vertical platform lift, or modifying the entryway to eliminate steps. If a step-free entrance isn’t possible, sturdy handrails, slip-resistant surfaces, and proper outdoor lighting can greatly improve safety.

Small upgrades can also make a big difference. Lever-style door handles are easier to use than round knobs for people with arthritis or reduced grip strength, while smart locks can eliminate the need to manage keys. In Rochester and throughout Western New York, it’s also important to keep walkways clear of snow and ice to reduce seasonal slip hazards.

By improving your home’s entryway, you can make everyday outings and returning home safer, easier, and more comfortable.

Age in Place Safely with Liv Home Pros

When your loved one decides to age in place, there are many risk factors to consider. Don’t let your stress impact your decision. Liv Home Pros is here to prepare your home and reduce your worries. The solutions we’ve laid out are just the beginning– we offer many more accessibility solutions that address various needs. Visit our website to discover more of our offerings!

Liv Home Pros is Western New York’s trusted solution for families in Western NY looking to create a safe environment to age in place. Ready to see how we can help you? Contact us today!