Modifying seniors’ homes to make them safer is one of four viable options for adults as they become older (the other three are staying in their children’s homes, residing in an assisted living facility or senior-oriented residence, and moving to a “senior-friendly” house). Here are a few ways to do that:

• According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), six out of ten falls happens at home, where people spend the most time and don’t think about their safety (seniors may overestimate their own physical abilities). It’s essential to Remove Fall Hazards-Improve lighting, especially at night. Install hand rails and grab bars as much as possible. Pick up clutter and remove tripping hazards, like electric cords and slippery rugs. Install an electric stair-climbing seat to make going up and down stairs less risky (and tiresome).
• Repair Walkway and Driveway Cracks for extended safety outdoors. Repair cracks or uneven pavement. Replace any loose patio bricks or blocks with a more staple design or with concrete or asphalt. Trim back bushes when outdoors and check for any tripping hazards also.
• Modify fixtures and other features; arthritis can make grasping and turning faucets and doorknobs hard to operate (dexterity can decrease with age). Replace shower knobs and faucets with lever handles, which are easier to handle.
• Improve visibility and communication with big-button phones, remote controls, smart keyboards, voice-activated thermostats and other smart home technology.
• Install ramps and non-slip flooring; ramps will make it easier to reach the front door or cross over elevator doorway thresholds. Non-slip flooring will prevent falls, with more traction for feet, walkers or canes.
• Install new cabinets and doors that will freely glide open and self-close. Replace those toggle light switches with easier paddle-type switches that can pushed with a hand or even arm. Invest in some motion-sensor lights. And push-button oven controls will make cooking easier.
• For unexpected medical emergencies, have easy-access phones set up in commonly used areas, like the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and the living room (Source: “Renovations for senior safety” by MetroServices, Vindy Homes-The (Sunday) Vindicator, January 31, 2016).

The National Association of Home Builders has a list of Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists with special training in designing and building aging-friendly home renovations. To locate one in your particular area, put “NAHB CAPS directory” into a search engine.

Considering moving to a “senior-friendly” house? Some features to look for include entryways and interior doors without raised thresholds; wide hallways and doorways; the bathroom, bedroom and laundry on the main floor; and services, shopping, transit and recreational facilities within walking distance (Source: “Consumer Reports-Living Well into your 80s and beyond”-The (Sunday) Vindicator, 2014).