Home Safety Tips for the Elderly and Caregivers

Entryways and hallways safety

The entrance to your home is the first area to consider when reviewing home safety. Wet weather, uneven surfaces, steps and poor lighting can make entering and leaving the property more difficult. A well-organised entrance can also make it easier to enter and leave the property, particularly where equipment or mobility aids need to be brought into the home.

• If there are steps, securely fitted outdoor handrails can provide additional support.
• Where appropriate, a ramp can make changes in level easier to navigate.
• Wheelchair users and people using mobility equipment may benefit from a suitable wheelchair ramp with an appropriate gradient and width.

Living room safety

The living room should provide plenty of space to move comfortably between the sofa, chairs, doors and other frequently used areas.

Start by looking at the floor. Loose rugs and mats can move unexpectedly, so consider removing them or securing them properly. Keep electrical cables against walls or secured where appropriate, rather than allowing them to cross walkways.

The right chair can make everyday sitting and standing more manageable. A suitable riser recliner can provide additional assistance when moving between sitting and standing, while also providing a comfortable place to relax.

You can explore our range of seating and riser recliner chairs or read our guide on choosing a suitable chair.

Bathroom safety

The bathroom deserves particular attention when reviewing home safety. Water can make surfaces slippery, while baths, showers and toilets can involve changes in height and position that make everyday tasks more challenging.

• Install suitable bath grab bars where additional support is needed.
• Use appropriate non-slip mats in areas where water may collect.
• Consider a raised toilet seat where getting on and off the toilet is difficult.

A bath lift can provide additional support when getting into and out of the bath, while allowing the user to continue bathing at home. If you are considering one, our Best Bath Lifts guide can help you understand some of the features and considerations when choosing a bath lift.

Bedroom safety

The bedroom should be comfortable and easy to navigate, including during the night when visibility may be reduced.

• Bed rails or other suitable bedroom equipment may provide additional support where appropriate.
• A profiling bed may be worth considering where a more adjustable sleeping and resting position is required.

Our bedroom accessories collection includes equipment designed to support everyday tasks in the bedroom. You can also read our Profiling Bed Buyer's Guide for more information when considering different options.

Outdoor areas and the garden

Staying active outdoors can be an important part of maintaining independence at home. The garden and paths should therefore receive the same attention as indoor spaces.

• Frequently used gardening equipment is easy to access and put away without excessive reaching or bending.

The right equipment can also make gardening and outdoor tasks easier to manage. Explore our range of garden tools and outdoor equipment for practical options designed to support everyday independence outdoors.

Building an emergency plan

Having a simple emergency plan can provide reassurance for both older people and their carers. Keep important information somewhere easy to find and make sure trusted family members or carers know where it is.

A telephone with large, easy-to-read buttons can be useful for some people. Pre-programming frequently used numbers can also make it easier to contact family members or carers.