Falls are the leading cause of injury death among seniors. So if you are retrofitting your home before your parents come to live with you, that statistic needs to be the first thought in your mind. But it shouldn’t be the only change you consider.

Bathroom
While the Center for Disease Control and Prevention does compile statistics about where people fall in general (the home leading the pack), it does not collect stats about where people fall within their homes. But it seems likely that the bathroom is the main culprit, between its slippery floors and lack of handholds. Determining where and how to install grip bars can be one of the most important updates to a bathroom. If necessary, follow that up with a toilet riser and make sure any mats on the ground are slip-proof. Falls on the way to the bathroom can also occur, so make sure the pathway to the restroom is clear, or invest in some adult pull-ups so there doesn’t need to be such a rush.

Kitchen
The most alarming part of the kitchen is the risk of fire if the stove is left on.  This can be prevented with knob cover locks that go over the stove controls. While that may take care of the fire risk, there are other risks to be assessed. Fatigue from standing can cause falling in the elderly. If your floor needs to be replaced anyway, consider installing a cork floor – they’re much more comfortable and supportive of the feet. If you’re not looking to go that far, you can always apply floor mats, provided they themselves don’t become a trip or slip hazard.

Indoors and Out
Some seniors with dementia have a tendency to wander. This can be very dangerous, but the solution can be simple. Sometimes just putting a bell on a front or back doorknob is all you need. But if that’s not loud enough or your elder decides to remove it, high locks can be installed.

Good luck with making the necessary changes to your home, and we’re sure your elderly parent or parents will appreciate your efforts.