Every year, one in four older Americans suffers a fall, putting them at risk of serious injury or death. Since many of these accidents occur in the home, those who opt to age in place should consider ways they can improve their daily safety. If you or someone you love is growing older in their own home, here are a few minor modifications that can improve senior care and reduce the risk of falls.

5 Minor Changes That Can Make Aging in Place Less Dangerous

1. Install Grab Bars

Install grab bars along walls at any location where a person might need additional support whenever they stand or walk. These devices also give seniors something to hold onto if they fall, allowing them to avoid a serious impact. Typically, these bars are placed along stairways, in hallways, in showers, and near toilets.

2. Remove Trip Hazards

Many older individuals don’t have the agility necessary to step over obstacles, which puts them at a higher risk of tripping. To prevent these accidents, clear up any clutter that could be considered a trip hazard—such as electrical cords, unsecured or curling rugs, boxes, and clunky furniture.

3. Switch to Brighter Bulbs

Due to age-related changes in the eye, decreased vision is a common senior care issue. As a result, it can be tough for older people to identify objects that could be in their way. By using brighter light bulbs—such as LED varieties—you’ll illuminate darker areas and improve visibility.

4. Keep Items in Reach

It can be dangerous for older people to reach for items that are too high up on shelves with reduced dexterity and balance. For proper fall prevention, minimize the need to reach by putting all essentials in drawers and on lower shelves of cabinets.

5. Spruce Up the Shower

The shower is a frequent spot for falls given its slippery conditions. In addition to installing grab bars, place a shower seat inside to provide a place for safe and stable washing. It’s also safety-minded to put anti-slip mats both inside and outside of the shower.

While there are many ways you can design a safer home for an older loved one, it’s also helpful to recruit the support of a trained in-home caregiver—such as those provided by the Wyndridge Health & Rehabilitation Center. Providing a wide range of senior care services in Crossville, TN, this provider offers affordable and convenient in-home assistance to help your aging relative with daily activities and medical support. If further care is needed—such as fall recovery assistance—this assisted living community also offers outpatient physical therapy at their fully equipped rehabilitation center. To learn more about these valuable, compassionate services, visit this elder care provider online or call (931) 707-5687.