Full Guide on how to Improve Home Safety as an Elderly Person

Posted by The Landsite on 26th March 2025 -

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As we age, we experience a lot of changes in our physical and cognitive abilities and many of these changes are a natural part of life, they can often make daily tasks more difficult. For elderly individuals, navigating a home that was once easy to move around in can become a challenge.
Fortunately, modern technology and practical devices can massively improve safety, comfort, and independence at home.
However, many elderly people aren’t aware of the helpful devices available to them, or they may not consider the potential benefits. In this blog, we’ll explore some essential devices that seniors might be missing in their homes, with a special focus on solutions that help maintain mobility and independence.

Stairlifts

One of the biggest challenges for elderly people is climbing stairs due to issues like mobility decline, weak muscles, arthritis, and other conditions that can make it hard to safely move up and down stairs. In this case, stairlifts are a great solution for those looking to avoid slips and injuries on stairs.
A stairlift is a motorised chair that runs along a track attached to the stairs, allowing the user to sit comfortably and travel between floors without the need to climb steps. This is an especially valuable device for homes with multiple levels, enabling seniors to access all parts of their house without risking a fall.
Beyond just the functionality, stairlifts genuinely just offer peace of mind. They come with safety features such as seatbelts, sensors to detect obstacles, and a simple control system. You can either buy or rent a stairlift, depending on how long the user needs the device.
For those who need a temporary solution, renting a stairlift is often a more affordable option, whereas purchasing one may be more cost-effective in the long run for permanent use.
For any elderly person experiencing difficulty with stairs, installing a stairlift can help improve their mobility and quality of life, making sure they can move around their home safely and confidently.

Smart Home Technology

Smart home devices aren’t just for tech enthusiasts. They can offer invaluable support for elderly individuals, making their homes safer, more convenient, and easier to manage.
For instance, smart speakers (like Amazon Alexa or Google Home) can be an excellent addition for elderly people. They allow users to control various aspects of their home—such as lights, thermostat, and even appliances—simply by using voice commands.
This can be incredibly helpful for seniors with limited mobility, as they no longer have to get up to adjust settings or perform simple tasks. Smart lighting systems are also a great choice, especially for older adults who may have trouble seeing or who are at risk of falling in low-light conditions.
These systems can automatically turn lights on when someone enters a room or when it gets dark, preventing accidents during nighttime walks around the house. Plus, the lights can be controlled remotely or via voice commands, making it easy for seniors to stay in control.
Another fantastic smart home tool is the video doorbell, as it allows elderly individuals to see who’s at the door without having to get up, open it, or put themselves at risk. This added layer of security is especially important for those living alone, as it helps them screen visitors and avoid opening the door to strangers.

Medical Alert Systems

For seniors who live independently, especially those with health concerns or mobility challenges, medical alert systems are an essential device. These systems allow users to call for help with the press of a button, providing peace of mind in case of an emergency.
Typically, these systems come in the form of wearable devices like wristbands or necklaces, each equipped with an emergency button. If the wearer falls, feels unwell, or experiences a medical issue, they can press the button, instantly connecting to a monitoring service that will dispatch help.
In addition to basic emergency alerts, many modern systems also include fall detection technology, which automatically detects if the user has fallen and contacts emergency services even if the user is unable to press the button. For elderly people, especially those with limited mobility or balance issues, a medical alert system can be a life-saving device.

Mobility Aids

Seniors with limited mobility often rely on mobility aids to move around their homes and these devices range from basic solutions, such as walking canes or walking sticks, to more advanced aids like walkers and wheelchairs.
A walker provides stability and support for seniors who need assistance with balance, so for those who need something more compact and portable, a rollator—a walker with wheels and a built-in seat—allows for greater mobility and gives users the option to sit and rest when needed.
For those with more severe mobility challenges, wheelchairs or scooters can be a perfect solution. These devices allow individuals to move freely around their homes or even go outside without relying on others for help.
Therefore, if you have the right mobility aids, you can continue to stay active, engage with your surroundings, and maintain a sense of independence.

Kitchen Assistance Devices

Preparing meals can become more difficult as people age, particularly for those with arthritis, vision problems, or limited hand strength. Thankfully, there are various kitchen assistance devices designed to help seniors prepare food with less strain.
Jar openers, automatic stirrers, and adaptive cutting boards can all make meal preparation easier and safer. Devices like these reduce the physical effort required for daily tasks, allowing seniors to continue cooking for themselves while reducing the risk of accidents or injuries in the kitchen.
Additionally, easily accessible kitchen storage solutions, like pull-out shelves and drawer organisers, can make it easier for seniors to reach items they need without straining or bending too much.

What Are You Going to Add?

As we grow older, maintaining a comfortable, accessible, and safe home environment is crucial. There are many devices that can really improve the quality of life for elderly people, allowing them to remain independent and safe in their own homes.
From stairlifts that prevent dangerous falls on the stairs to smart home devices that add convenience and security, these tools can make a world of difference. Medical alert systems, mobility aids, and kitchen assistance devices are just a few examples of solutions that can help seniors manage day-to-day tasks with ease.
If you have an elderly loved one or are considering ways to make your own home safer, consider investing in some of these helpful devices. Not only can they improve physical safety, but they can also enhance overall well-being, making sure that seniors can live comfortably in their own homes for years to come.