As your parents or loved ones grow older, their home can begin to feel less like a haven and more like a potential hazard. With age, mobility issues, balance difficulties, and vision impairments can make everyday tasks more challenging—and sometimes dangerous. Thankfully, you don’t need to break the bank to make their home safer and more comfortable.

Here in Washington, where more seniors are choosing to age in place, simple and affordable modifications can help prevent accidents and give families peace of mind. Here are five practical ways to make their home safer without spending a fortune.

1. Install Grab Bars and Handrails

• Why It’s Important: Bathrooms and staircases are some of the riskiest places in a home for seniors. Slips and falls often happen when there’s nothing stable to hold onto.

• What to Do:

  • Install grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers.

  • Add sturdy handrails on both sides of staircases.

  • Look for easy-to-install, no-drill grab bars if you’re renting or want a quick solution.

• Cost: Grab bars start as low as $20, and installation kits are readily available at stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Washington.

2. Use Non-Slip Mats and Rugs

• Why It’s Important: Slippery floors, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, can lead to dangerous falls.

• What to Do:

  • Place non-slip mats in the shower, bathtub, and kitchen.

  • Replace loose or curled-up rugs with ones that have non-slip backing.

  • For extra safety, add anti-slip tape to steps or areas prone to wetness.

• Cost: Non-slip mats range from $10 to $30, making this one of the most budget-friendly safety upgrades.

3. Improve Lighting in Key Areas

• Why It’s Important: Poor lighting can make it harder for seniors to navigate their home, increasing the risk of tripping over objects or misjudging steps.

• What to Do:

  • Use LED bulbs in hallways, bathrooms, and staircases for brighter, long-lasting light.

  • Install motion-sensor nightlights in hallways and bedrooms to guide them at night.

  • Replace lampshades or curtains that dim the light in key areas.

• Cost: Motion-sensor nightlights cost around $15-$25 each, while energy-efficient LED bulbs are as low as $5.

4. Declutter and Rearrange for Accessibility

• Why It’s Important: Cluttered spaces and difficult-to-reach items can create hazards or make daily tasks harder for seniors.

• What to Do:

  • Remove excess furniture and clear pathways to create wider walking spaces.

  • Move everyday essentials—like dishes, medication, and clothing—within easy reach.

  • Use organizing bins or shelves to reduce clutter and keep items visible and accessible.

• Cost: Decluttering costs nothing but time, and storage bins or shelves can be found for $10-$30 at stores like Target or Walmart.

5. Secure Furniture and Cords

• Why It’s Important: Wobbly furniture and exposed cords can cause seniors to trip or fall. Additionally, unsecured furniture may topple over if leaned on for support.

• What to Do:

  • Secure heavy furniture, like bookshelves and cabinets, to the wall with brackets.

  • Tape down or tuck away electrical cords that cross walkways.

  • Add corner protectors to sharp furniture edges to prevent injuries.

• Cost: Furniture anchors and cord covers cost about $10-$15, making this a low-cost but impactful change.

Bonus Tip: Conduct a Safety Walkthrough

If you’re not sure where to start, take a "safety walk" through your aging loved one’s home. Look for hazards like loose rugs, dimly lit areas, or items placed too high or too low. Making even small adjustments can have a big impact.

Local Resources in Washington to Help

Here are some Washington-based resources that can support your home safety efforts:

• Washington Fall Prevention Program: Provides tips and resources to reduce fall risks in the home.

  • Learn more here

• Rebuilding Together Seattle: Offers home modification services for seniors in need, including installing grab bars and handrails.

  • Visit their website

• Senior Services of Snohomish County: Assists with minor home repairs and safety modifications for older adults.

  • Learn more

Helping Your Loved Ones Age Safely at Home

Taking proactive steps to ensure your aging parents’ home is safe and secure doesn’t have to cost a fortune. These small, affordable changes can go a long way in preventing accidents and providing peace of mind for the whole family.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, here at Caringene, we provide in-home care services like to provide additional support for your loved ones here in Washington. From daily tasks to companionship, we’re here to ensure your loved ones stay safe and comfortable at home. Reach out to us here or contact us via email (staff@caringene.com) or phone (425-298-6493), to get started with in-home care for your aging loved one as soon as tomorrow!