Helpful Tips to Safely Age in Place

When it comes to healthy aging, there are a lot of important decisions to consider. One of the most important decisions is to continue to safely and independently live in the comfort of your own home. And with just a few helpful tips, you can ensure that every room in your home or the household of your care recipient can improve the process of aging in place. 

Front Entrance Tips

• Add sturdy, easy-to-grasp railings on both sides of the stairs for additional support
• Ensure there’s a landing to safely place a walker or other equipment
• Make sure your main entrances are easy to open and close
• Widen doors to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers to move easily through your front door (at least 32 inches wide)
• Include adequate lighting in your driveway, trash area, walkways, and near all doors
• Install a ramp, if necessary, through Access North Center for Independent Living of Northeast Minnesota

 Front Hallway Tips

• Add easy-to-reach light switches in the foyer or front hallway
• Remove tripping hazards like shoes, purses, or umbrellas
• Secure rugs to the floor

Kitchen Tips

• Update with adequate lighting that’s easy to reach
• Ensure the area is free of tripping hazards like trash, pet dishes, etc.
• Make sure the height of the counter and storage spaces are easily accessible without climbing a stool
• Place commonly used objects closest to you for easy access
• Adjust the location of major appliances so they’re easier to reach

Living Room Tips

• Get rid of extra furniture that could be a trip hazard
• Opt for couches and chairs that make it easy to stand and sit
• Keep electric cords out of pathways

Bathroom Tips

• Add a nightlight
• Swap out your toilet for a taller version
• Add grab bars and a non skid floor surface in the shower or tub
• Opt for user-friendly flushing controls and faucets
• Install a walk-in shower with a low step (if possible)

Bedroom Tips

• Move bedroom to the main level (if possible)
• Make sure the bed is easy to get in and out of
• Ensure flooring is safe and throw rugs are tacked down
• Add good lighting with easy access
• Include a lamp and a phone next to where you sleep

Additional Tips

• Move the washer and dryer to the main level (if possible) or toss smaller loads in a pillowcase down the stairs
• Make sure your home has smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors

For even more helpful tips on safely aging in place, tune in to episode 5 of our podcast, The Northland Caregiver, or download a comprehensive Home Safety Assessment Checklist here.