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I remember the first time we brought my great aunt to visit my husband and me in New Hampshire. Our house was an old colonial with all the charm and quirks — including uneven granite steps at the front door. It was beautiful, no doubt about it, but practical? Not really. My great aunt, who was always extremely independent, struggled to lift her leg high enough to get over those steps. I felt terrible and realized how tricky certain home features can be for older adults.
Now, years later, after working in home care, I know how much small adjustments can have a big impact when it comes to accessibility. As we approach the holiday season, it’s not just about decorating and planning meals. It’s about creating a safe, welcoming space for all of our loved ones — especially those who may need a bit more support navigating our homes.
The CDC reports that one in four older adults in the U.S. falls each year, with winter posing even more risks due to icy walkways, low lighting, and crowded spaces. If you’re hosting aging family members or friends this season, here are some essential safety measures and thoughtful adjustments to help ensure their comfort and safety.
Three Essential Safety Products for Fall Prevention
Let’s start with the basics — these are the tried-and-true adjustments to make your home fall-proof for guests who may need a little extra support.
- Toilet Risers with Handles
- Why It’s Essential: Lower toilets can be difficult for those with knee or hip limitations. A stylish toilet riser with handles makes sitting and standing safer and more comfortable.
- Shop Stylish Toilet Riser: Buy Now.
- Non-Slip Mats in Showers and Bathtubs
- Why It’s Essential: Bathrooms are a top risk area for falls. Non-slip shower mats create a stable surface to reduce the risk of slipping in wet areas.
- Shop Non-Slip Shower and Bath Mat: Click to Shop.
- Motion-Activated Nightlights
- Why It’s Essential: Navigating an unfamiliar home in the dark is challenging. Motion-activated nightlights illuminate paths automatically, providing instant visibility during nighttime trips.
- Dusk-to-Dawn Motion-Activated Nightlights: Click to Shop.
Winter-Specific Safety Tips for November and December
With shorter days and colder weather, there are unique hazards to consider during these months. Here are some proactive steps to help everyone stay safe and comfortable.
1. Prevent Ice and Snow Accumulation on Walkways
- Why It’s Important: Outdoor paths, steps, and entryways can become dangerously slippery with ice and snow, increasing fall risk.
- Pro Tip: Use pet-safe ice melt and regularly clear snow from paths. Add textured, non-slip strips to outdoor steps to improve traction. Click to Shop.
2. Maintain Indoor Humidity and Hydration
- Why It’s Important: Winter air is often drier, which can lead to dehydration and dizziness, both of which increase fall risk.
- Pro Tip: Use a humidifier to keep indoor air comfortable, and encourage hydration by keeping water easily accessible.
3. Test and Replace Batteries in Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
- Why It’s Important: With heaters and fireplaces running, the risk of carbon monoxide exposure rises in winter. Properly functioning detectors are essential for safety.
- Pro Tip: Test and replace batteries in smoke and CO detectors at the start of the season. Make sure detectors are placed in bedrooms and common areas.
4. Keep Emergency Supplies Handy for Winter Storms
- Why It’s Important: Winter storms can lead to power outages, which can be especially challenging for older adults who may rely on electronic devices.
- Pro Tip: Stock flashlights, extra blankets, and batteries in an easily accessible spot. A portable battery charger for phones can also be useful.
Expert-Level Home Safety Tips for Aging Loved Ones
These adjustments go beyond the basics, inspired by professional safety home checklists to create a truly safe environment for aging guests.
1. Clutter-Free and Well-Lit Pathways
- Why It’s Important: With shorter winter days, navigating dark or cluttered spaces becomes more dangerous.
- Pro Tip: Rearrange furniture to open up pathways, use glow-in-the-dark switches, and ensure hallways are well-lit, especially during the evenings.
2. Secure Handrails and Add Grab Bars
- Why It’s Important: Handrails provide support on steps and stairs, especially when balance is compromised by winter layers or slippery surfaces.
- Pro Tip: Check that all handrails are secure, and add grab bars in bathrooms or near entryways for additional support. Click to Shop.
3. Add a Bench with Armrests at the Entryway
- Why It’s Important: Sitting to remove winter footwear is much safer than balancing on one foot.
- Pro Tip: Place a bench with armrests near the entryway to offer a stable spot for removing shoes. Click to Shop.
4. Use Weighted Blankets to Reduce Night Restlessness
- Why It’s Important: Weighted blankets promote restful sleep, reducing the risk of disorientation during nighttime movement.
- Pro Tip: Choose a lighter-weight blanket that’s easy to lift. Click to Shop.
5. Bright Threshold Markers to Increase Visibility of Steps
- Why It’s Important: Slight changes in floor height can go unnoticed, especially in low light.
- Pro Tip: Use brightly colored markers on thresholds to make them more visible, which is especially helpful during winter’s dim lighting. Click to Shop.
We’d Love to Hear From You!
Making your home safer and more welcoming for aging loved ones is one of the best gifts you can give this holiday season. Have you tried any of these tips? Do you have additional suggestions? We’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback! Your stories and ideas help build a community of support and knowledge.
Ready to take the next step? Visit SilverSavvy.com to explore our curated selection of safety products designed for comfort and independence. For personalized guidance, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you create a safe, welcoming environment for all ages.
Thank you for reading, and warmest wishes for a happy, safe holiday season from all of us at SilverSavvy!
To Aging Well,
The SilverSavvy Team