A 2021 AARP survey shows more than three-quarters of U.S. adults age 50 and older want to stay in their current homes for as long as possible. And many of us have aging parents, or maybe you're the aging parent, so where do you even begin to keep a safe home for the senior in your life.

Nationwide says, “Preventing falls, the leading cause of death and serious injury in the senior population, is key to a long, happy life at home.” Although there may be physical factors that may cause a fall there are many environmental factors that you have control over. Making sure that these hazards are eliminated will be a great step to keep your senior healthy for as long as possible within their own home.

Below are some tips from Nationwide to ensure a safe environment:

• Install secure handrails and bright lights with switches at each end of hallways and top and bottom of stairways.
• Repair loose or uneven steps. Check stairs for worn or loose carpeting and install anti-slip treads and non-skid backing on rugs.
• Install grab bars for the toilet, bathtub and/or shower, and use non-slip mats or decals on ceramic surfaces both inside and outside the tub. And raise the height of the toilet seat to improve stability while using the bathroom.
• Install nightlights in areas frequented at night. Also, consider placing a flashlight near the bed. And install grab bars to help get in and out of bed.
• Store frequently-used items on lower shelves in the kitchen to limit the use of stools or step-ladders.

Because we cannot manage every environmental factor your loved one may encounter using technology is a great way to give you peace of mind. Some tech tools are already in the home, like Alexa and Apple Watch. There are additional services you can add to these common tech items that allow these to become easy usable tools to keep your senior safe. Check out Alexa Together and the Lively app. Some additional options are:

· Alarm.com Wellness

· Oculus Quest 2 and Rendever

· Portal Go

Installing these options into your home as you age may make a lot of sense to you, but when it comes to your loved one it may be a bit more challenging. Be considerate of their feelings, ensure them that their safety is of the upmost importance to you, start with small changes, and make it fun – Alexa can be so amusing. Asking her questions such as, Alexa, can you give me a random fact?, Alexa, can you tell me a movie fact?, Alexa, what are some interesting history facts?, will be entertaining instead of intrusive. Also, check out HealinAging.org for their Tip Sheet: Home Safety Tips for Older Adults.

If you’re ready to improve the safety of your or your family member’s home, find a local aging-in-place inspector. Once your inspection is complete and if you’d like help installing some of the items mentioned above, or items from your inspection, reach out to us at 302.312.6051 or via email at questions@blwardassociates.com.