Home Modifications

The risks for household injury to older adults increases with age, impacting their capability to successfully age in place. Among the greatest threats is falling—the leading cause of injurious death among older adults.

Common features in an everyday household, such as a lack of support in the shower or bathroom, inadequate railings on the stairs, loose throw rugs, and obstructed pathways are all possible dangers to an older person. However, simple and low-cost home modifications can greatly decrease the risk of falling, as well as decreasing the risk of other forms of injury.

Some examples of home modifications include: increased lighting, accessible switches at both ends of the stairs, additional railings, grab bars, nonskid flooring, a hand-held, flexible shower head, walk-in bathtubs, and the removal of throw rugs and clutter. Other modifications to the home are a little more costly due to increased complexity of installation. These can include: ramps for accessible entry and exit, walk-in shower, sliding shelves, stairlifts, or even home elevators.