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A Checklist for Making Your Parents’ Home Safer As They Age

As your parents get older, their home should be a place where they can continue to live comfortably and independently. However, as mobility and vision decline, things that were once safe can become hazards. Taking small steps now can prevent falls, reduce injury risks, and make daily life easier.

This checklist is designed for the sandwich generation—those balancing responsibilities for both their children and their aging parents. Whether your parents plan to stay in their home long-term or you are just starting to think about their future, these home safety updates will help give everyone peace of mind.

1. Prevent Falls and Improve Mobility

Falls are one of the biggest risks for older adults. A few simple adjustments can make a big difference.

Check for loose rugs, cords, and clutter in hallways and walkways. If your parents love their area rugs, use double-sided tape or non-slip backings to keep them in place.

Vision changes with age, so ensure stairways, hallways, and bathrooms are well-lit. Install nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways to prevent falls at night.

If their home has stairs, make sure both sides of the staircase have secure handrails. If balance is a concern, consider adding a stair lift for easier mobility.

Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous places for falls. Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or bathtub. They should be securely mounted into wall studs, not just attached with suction cups.

Avoid highly polished floors or loose mats that can slide. If needed, add non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen where spills are more likely to happen.

2. Make Everyday Tasks Easier

Small changes can help your parents maintain their independence while making daily activities safer and more convenient.

Store frequently used dishes, cookware, and pantry items in easy-to-reach locations. Avoid the need for step stools, which can be a fall hazard.

Arthritis or decreased grip strength can make traditional knobs difficult to use. Lever-style handles are much easier on the hands and require less effort.

These are especially helpful for hallways, bathrooms, and entryways. They eliminate the need to fumble for a light switch in the dark.

A programmable or voice-activated thermostat can make it easier for your parents to adjust the temperature without having to get up frequently.

Make sure they have an easy-to-use phone nearby in case of an emergency. Teach them how to use voice commands if they have a smartphone.

3. Increase Safety in the Bathroom

Bathrooms are high-risk areas for falls and injuries, so extra precautions are necessary.

A raised seat makes it easier to sit and stand without straining the knees or back.

If standing for long periods is difficult, a shower chair allows them to sit while bathing, reducing the risk of slipping.

Stepping over the side of a tub can be difficult. A walk-in shower with a hand-held showerhead is much safer and easier to use.

Wet surfaces can be slippery. Non-slip strips provide extra traction to prevent falls.

Scalding can be a concern. Adjust the water heater to a maximum of 120°F to prevent accidental burns.

4. Improve Home Security and Emergency Preparedness

Making sure your parents’ home is secure can protect them from both accidents and unwanted visitors.

This allows them to see who is at the door before opening it, helping to prevent scams or unwanted solicitors.

Replace batteries regularly and ensure there is a working detector in every bedroom, hallway, and kitchen area.

Whether it’s a wearable medical alert button or a smart speaker with voice-activated emergency calling, having a quick way to get help is crucial.

Post a list of emergency contacts (family members, neighbors, doctors, poison control) in a visible location like the refrigerator or next to the phone.

Complicated locks can make it difficult for them to get in and out safely. Consider keyless entry systems or locks that can be opened with a code.

5. Adjust the Kitchen for Safety and Convenience

The kitchen should be set up in a way that minimizes the risk of burns, spills, and strain.

Stovetop burners and ovens with automatic shut-off features can prevent fires if something is left on accidentally.

Cast iron and large pots can be difficult to lift. Consider lighter alternatives that are easier to handle.

A small kitchen fire can quickly become dangerous. Check that they have a working fire extinguisher and know when and how to use it.

Avoid high shelves or cabinets that require climbing or stretching.

If vision is declining, clear labels can help prevent confusion when cooking.

6. Plan for the Future

Thinking ahead can help avoid last-minute decisions and ensure your parents can stay in their home safely for as long as possible.

If your parents plan to stay in their home long-term, it may be worth investing in home modifications like wider doorways, wheelchair-friendly flooring, or even a first-floor bedroom and bathroom.

Over time, new challenges may arise. Plan to walk through the home every few months to reassess safety concerns.

If daily tasks become too difficult, an in-home caregiver can help with household chores, meal prep, and personal care while allowing them to stay independent.

If staying in their home is not sustainable long-term, it is better to start the conversation early about alternative options like downsizing, senior communities, or assisted living.

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