Tips to Make Sure an Aging Family Member Has a Safe Home Environment

The number of adults age 50 and older living alone reached approximately 24 million in 2025. As this population continues to grow, so does concern about home safety for older adults. The home environment can present risks involving security, physical safety, and health, many of which we don't think about when we're younger and more agile.

Fortunately, there are many ways to assess and improve home safety for an aging family member. The following tips can help you get started.

By addressing potential hazards early, families can help older adults maintain greater independence while enjoying the comfort and familiarity of home.

What Are the Best Ways to Keep an Older Adult's Home Safe and Secure?

Investing in home safety technology and making practical improvements can help create a safer, more secure environment for older adults. Consider the following measures:

• Exterior Security Cameras: Install cameras to monitor activity outside the home, particularly around the front door, ground-level windows, side and rear entrances, and poorly lit areas.

• Indoor and Outdoor Lighting: Focus on illuminating walkways, entrances, and dark areas around the home's exterior. Motion-activated lights are especially useful outdoors. Inside, sensor-triggered lighting in bedrooms, hallways, and other frequently used areas can improve visibility and help prevent nighttime falls.

• Interior Cameras: Cameras can help family members monitor activity inside the home, not just identify intruders. When placed thoughtfully in common areas or near stairways, they may help caregivers recognize a fall or other emergency. Be sure to discuss camera placement with your loved one and respect their privacy, particularly in bedrooms and bathrooms.

• Connected Monitoring Technology: Motion sensors, security cameras, and related smartphone apps can send alerts to designated family members when unusual activity is detected. Depending on the system, caregivers may also be able to view a live video feed to assess a potential emergency.

• Fire Safety: Install and regularly test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Stove alarms and automatic shutoff devices can provide additional protection if an older adult accidentally leaves a burner on.

• Water Sensor Alarms: Place water leak sensors near toilets, beneath sinks, and around dishwashers and water heaters. These devices can alert residents to leaks before water accumulates, potentially preventing slips, falls, and costly property damage.

• Grab Bars and Handrails: Properly installed grab bars and handrails are essential safety features for reducing fall risks. Indoors, grab bars are particularly helpful near toilets and in showers or bathtubs. Outdoors, sturdy handrails should be installed along steps and entryways where needed.

• Clutter Reduction: Clutter presents safety hazards both inside and outside the home. Keep walkways clear of overgrown shrubs, exposed roots, and debris. Indoors, make sure hallways, windows, doors, and exits are free from obstructions.

  Excessive clutter can increase the risk of falls and make it difficult to evacuate during a fire or other emergency. Clear access is also important for emergency medical personnel and first responders.

  If organizing and removing clutter becomes overwhelming for family caregivers, or if an older adult is reluctant to part with treasured belongings, consider working with a professional organizing service that specializes in helping older adults.

Are There Apps That Can Help Protect an Older Adult's Health and Safety at Home?

A variety of smartphone apps and connected technologies can support the health, safety, and independence of older adults living at home.

Because every individual's needs and home environment are different, it's important to research available options carefully. Some apps provide medication reminders, while others connect with medical alert devices, fall detection systems, or home security equipment.

If your loved one takes medications or has ongoing health concerns, consult their healthcare provider about which monitoring tools may be appropriate.

For additional home safety guidance, consider contacting your local Area Agency on Aging, senior center, or AARP for helpful resources and recommendations.

The following articles offer a useful starting point for exploring home safety technology:

• Best Tech Gear for Aging in Place – The New York Times

• Smartphone Safety Apps for Older Adults – AARP

• Guide to Safety Technology for Aging Adults – TechEase

• Best Medical Alert Apps for Seniors – Senior Living

Creating a Safer Home for an Aging Loved One

Helping an older adult remain safe at home doesn't necessarily require major renovations or expensive technology. Often, a combination of simple improvements, thoughtful planning, and appropriate monitoring tools can make a meaningful difference.

Regularly reassessing your loved one's home environment is especially important as their mobility, health, and daily living needs change. By addressing potential hazards early, families can help older adults maintain greater independence while enjoying the comfort and familiarity of home.

Safe and Secure at Everbrook Senior Living Communities

Whether living independently or residing in our assisted living or memory care residences, older adults can enjoy a safe and secure environment at Everbrook Senior Living.

Our communities incorporate modern safety technology, thoughtfully designed living spaces, and well-maintained grounds to help support residents' comfort and security. Our professional staff are dedicated to providing attentive care and continually looking for ways to enhance the amenities and safety features available throughout our communities.

Come visit us and discover how Everbrook Senior Living can provide you and your loved one with greater peace of mind throughout the golden years.