9 Home Safety Improvements Every Boomer Should Consider

As we get older, our homes should change with us. Boomers often want to stay in their houses for as long as possible. But to do that safely, some updates might be needed. These changes don’t have to be big or costly, but they can make a huge difference in comfort and safety.

From simple fixes like better lighting to smart tech that can call for help, many ways exist to make a home safer for older adults. Let’s look at nine clever changes that can turn any house into a safer, more comfortable home for years to come.

Bright and Easy Lighting

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Good lighting is key for safety, so install brighter bulbs and add more lamps around the house. Put light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs. Use night lights in hallways and bathrooms. Motion-sensor lights outside can help prevent trips and falls in the dark.

Non-Slip Floors

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Slippery floors are dangerous. Add non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen. Use rugs with non-slip backing. Consider replacing shiny floors with textured ones. This can greatly reduce the risk of falling, especially when floors are wet.

Stair Safety Upgrades

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A few changes can make stairs safer: Add non-slip treads to each step, install handrails on both sides of the staircase, make sure the stairs are well-lit, and consider painting the edges of the steps a bright color to make them easier to see.

First-Floor Living Space

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Think about creating a bedroom and full bathroom on the first floor. This can be really helpful if climbing stairs becomes difficult. It doesn’t have to be fancy – even converting a den or office can work. Having this option can help you stay in your home longer.

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Smart Home Tech

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New technology can make homes safer. Install a smart doorbell with a camera to see who’s at the door. Use voice-activated devices to control lights and thermostats. Consider a medical alert system that can call for help if you fall. These gadgets can provide both safety and convenience.

Clutter-Free Pathways

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Keep walkways clear of clutter. Move furniture to create wider paths through rooms. Roll up or remove throw rugs that could cause tripping. Make sure cords are tucked away safely. Clear paths make moving around much safer and easier.

Easy-Reach Kitchen

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Rearrange your kitchen for easier access. Put often-used items on lower shelves. Consider pull-out drawers in lower cabinets. Install a side-by-side fridge instead of a top-freezer model. These changes can make cooking safer and more enjoyable.

Bathroom Makeover

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Transform your bathroom into a safer space. Install a walk-in shower with a low or no threshold. Add a shower seat and a handheld showerhead. Consider raising the height of the toilet. These updates can make personal care much safer and more comfortable.

Better Outdoor Access

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Make getting in and out of your home safer. Install ramps instead of steps at entrances. Make sure outdoor walkways are smooth and well-lit. Add a covered entryway to stay dry in bad weather. These changes can prevent falls and make coming home more welcoming.

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Joy Fadogba

Joy Fadogba is a passionate writer who has spent over a decade exploring and writing about lifestyle topics. With a fondness for quotes and the little details that make life extraordinary, she writes content that not only entertains but also enriches the lives of those who read her blogs. You can find her writing on Mastermind Quotes and on her personal blog. When she is not writing, she is reading a book, gardening, or travelling.