Remaining in our home as we age is generally both a comfort and cost savings for us, a key aspect of quality of life for seniors. Here are 10 modifications that will help.

• Grab bars in shower and by toilet: $200 install, prevents a $120K/year facility stay
• Walk-in shower removes the step-over threshold: bathtub edge is the top home fall location
• First-floor bedroom eliminates stair falls at night: nighttime bathroom trips are highest-risk
• Motion-sensor hallway lighting activates before movement: fumbling for switches causes more falls than dark
• Lever door handles replace round knobs: arthritic hands open levers, can’t grip knobs
• Non-slip flooring costs under $500 to install: polished wood and smooth tile are the riskiest surfaces
• Medical alert device cuts emergency response time: a fall without response for an hour causes secondary injury
• Raised toilet seats reduce stand-up fall risk: most falls happen during the standing phase
• Removing area rugs eliminates the top trip hazard: rug edges catch shuffling gaits before they notice
• Exterior ramp replaces stairs for independent access: inability to get in and outside triggers concerns about safe and rapid entry and exit.

###