They say home is where the heart is, but it’s also where you’re most likely to trip over a stray rug or stub your toe on a rogue coffee table. A safe, comfortable, and welcoming home is essential as we gracefully embrace our golden years to improve accessibility and prevent falls. With a few easy tweaks, you can turn your space into a haven of comfort and safety without sacrificing style. Let’s go room by room.
Living Room: Cozy, Not Catastrophic
Ah, the living room—the place for TV marathons, afternoon naps, and the occasional hunt for the remote. Keep it hazard-free with these simple tips:
- Secure those rugs! Unless you want to recreate an ice-skating rink, non-slip pads are your new best friend.
- Declutter those pathways. Clear paths = fewer chances of an accidental tango with your coffee table.
- Add adjustable lighting to make those late-night Netflix binges easier on your eyes.
💡 Quick Tip: If the remote keeps disappearing, consider a remote caddy. Or just tape it to the coffee table. No judgment here.
Kitchen: Where Meals (and Mischief) Happen
The kitchen is the heart of the home—and also where you’re most likely to have an encounter with a slippery floor or out-of-reach saucepan.
- Use easy-grip utensils that don’t make your hands feel like they’ve run a marathon.
- Install pull-out shelves because no one wants to crawl into a cabinet to retrieve a pot.
- Keep frequently used items within arm’s reach. Who needs a step stool when you’ve got clever storage?
- Consider a stove with automatic shut-off features for those “Did I leave the stove on?” moments.
💡 Quick Tip: A labelled spice rack = less time guessing whether it’s sugar or salt. You’re welcome.
Bathroom: Slippery When Wet? Not Anymore!
Bathrooms are notorious for slips and spills, but with a few adjustments, they can be as safe as they are sparkling:
- Add grab bars near the toilet and shower. Pro tip: Choose ones that match your decor—practical and pretty!
- Use non-slip mats because who needs impromptu water ballet practice?
- Consider a walk-in tub or shower so you can skip the gymnastics.
- Install a nightlight because nobody likes midnight toe stubs.
💡 Quick Tip: Get a shower caddy. No one wants to play shampoo bottle Jenga.
💡 A Not-so-quick Tip: My Aged Care offers funding for Home Modifications, meaning they will subsidise the cost of having grab rails installed in the bathroom (or other areas of the home). However, the process can take time, therefore it is best to make this request to My Aged Care before it becomes an urgent need (ie. Don’t wait until you have an accident to start thinking about putting in grab rails – start the process as a pre-emptive measure to prevent falls.)
Bedroom: Sweet Dreams, No Tumbles
Your bedroom should be a serene retreat, not an obstacle course.
- Use a bed that’s easy to get in and out of—no pole-vaulting required. Consider an adjustable, hospital-style bed if you struggle with transfers.
- Keep a lamp or flashlight within reach for nighttime adventures.
- Ensure pathways are clear, and keep cords tucked away to avoid late-night acrobatics.
💡 Quick Tip: Put the alarm clock where you can actually read it without squinting.
Hallways and Stairs: No Detours Allowed
Hallways and stairs are just places to pass through, but they can become hazardous if not maintained.
- Install motion-sensor lights for instant illumination when you need it.
- Add handrails on both sides of staircases for double the security.
- Use contrasting colours on stair edges to prevent any “oops, I missed a step” moments.
💡 Quick Tip: If you’re still using loose rugs in hallways, it’s time for a heart-to-heart. Safety first, style second.
Outdoor Spaces: Enjoy the Great Outdoors (Safely)
Your outdoor area should be a place to relax, not worry:
- Make sure pathways are level and crack-free—no one wants to reenact a scene from a slapstick comedy.
- Add seating areas with shade so you can enjoy the sunshine without becoming a raisin.
- Use solar-powered lights to keep things lit at night without the hefty power bill.
💡 Quick Tip: Keep a cane or walking stick near the door for extra stability when stepping outside
Final Thoughts
Creating a safe and inviting home isn’t about turning your house into a fortress—it’s about making smart tweaks so you can enjoy life to the fullest. Think of it as future-proofing your space while keeping it cozy. After all, home should always feel like a safe haven.