How to Create a Safe Environment at Home

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The Kitchen

  • Organise Shelves: Put frequently used items like dishes and pots at an easy height—no reaching up high or bending down.
  • Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats near the sink and stove to avoid slipping on wet floors.
  • Stove Safety: Add stove guards or automatic shut-offs to prevent accidents. Make sure appliances are within reach and work properly.
  • Bright Lights: Install lights under cabinets to make cooking areas brighter.
  • Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher handy and check that smoke detectors work.
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The Living Room

  • Clear Walkways: Move furniture and clutter to make paths clear for easy movement.
  • Sturdy Furniture: Choose furniture that’s strong and stable. Avoid low, soft couches or chairs that are hard to get out of.
  • Tidy Cords: Make sure electrical cords are tucked away so no one trips.
  • Good Lighting: Use bright lamps and make sure light switches are easy to reach. Consider using remote-controlled or smart lights.
  • Secure Rugs: Remove rugs if possible, or make sure they are stuck to the floor with non-slip pads.
A cozy living room with a tan sofa, two armchairs, plants, and a wooden coffee table on a patterned rug. - Home Instead

The Bathroom

  • Grab Bars: Install grab bars by the toilet, tub, and shower to help with balance.
  • Non-Slip Mats: Place non-slip mats inside the tub and outside the shower to avoid slipping.
  • Raised Toilet Seat: A higher toilet seat with handles can make sitting down and standing up easier.
  • Walk-In Shower or Tub: Consider getting a walk-in shower or tub so you don’t have to step over high edges.
  • Shower Chair and Handheld Showerhead: A shower chair allows you to sit while washing. A handheld showerhead makes bathing easier.
  • Safe Water Temperature: Set the water heater to no higher than 44 degree celsius to prevent burns.
Vintage-style bathroom with a green bathtub, patterned armchair, striped rug, and art on the walls. - Home Instead

The Bedroom

  • Bed Height: Ensure the bed is at a comfortable height, so getting in and out is easy. Add bed rails or a grab bar if needed.
  • Nightstand: Keep a sturdy table near the bed with a phone, flashlight, water, and glasses within easy reach.
  • Nightlights: Use nightlights in the bedroom and hallway to light the way to the bathroom at night.
  • Clear Floors: Keep the area around the bed free of clutter and cords.
  • Emergency System: Consider installing a fall detection or emergency alert system for extra security.
A cozy bedroom with a wooden accent wall, bed with grey and white bedding, side table, and two framed photos. - Home Instead

The Hallway

  • Clear Paths: Remove any furniture or clutter from hallways.
  • Handrails: Install handrails along the hallways and stairs for support.
  • Lighting: Add bright lights in the hallways. Motion-sensor lights are helpful, especially at night.
  • Well-Lit Stairs: Ensure stairways are well-lit with light switches at both the top and bottom.
  • Non-Slip Rugs: If you use rugs, make sure they’re non-slip or secured to the floor.
Elegant staircase with blue walls, ornate archway, and wooden handrail in a well-lit hallway. - Home Instead

The Garden

  • Clear Pathways: Keep garden paths clear of debris, tools, or plants to prevent tripping.
  • Non-Slip Surfaces: Use non-slip materials for outdoor walkways to improve traction, especially when wet.
  • Sturdy Seating: Provide comfortable, stable seating areas where seniors can rest while gardening or enjoying the outdoors.
  • Adequate Lighting: Install lights along garden paths or near seating areas for visibility during the evening.
  • Gardening Tools: Provide lightweight, ergonomic gardening tools to make gardening easier and reduce strain.
A greenhouse filled with colorful flowers, including red and orange gerberas in the foreground and various plants in the background. - Home Instead