Adapting a Senior’s Home: Our Tips for Safe and Peaceful Aging in Place

Have your elderly parents expressed the desire to keep living at home, but you're concerned about their safety? Properly adapting a senior’s home is an excellent way to help them maintain their independence while staying in a secure environment. With good planning and a few key tips, the home can be made both safe and comfortable.

Safety First!

While there are many great reasons to adapt a senior’s living space, safety is undoubtedly the top priority. We want our loved ones to live in an environment that minimizes the risk of accidents.

Among home accidents, falls are the most common. According to Quebec’s National Institute of Public Health (INSPQ), about one-third of seniors living at home experience a fall each year. The consequences vary, but prevention is always better.

Adapting the Home: From Common Areas to Individual Rooms

When an elderly person chooses to remain at home, the adaptation process should be done in stages. Whether in a house or an apartment, it’s important to plan modifications room by room, including common areas like hallways and stairs.

Stairs deserve special attention since accidents happen frequently there. Start by ensuring the handrail is solid and easily accessible. Adding a second handrail on the opposite side can provide extra security. Make sure the stair covering is non-slip to reduce fall risks.

Lighting is also crucial throughout the home. Each area should be well-lit, and light switches must be easily accessible for seniors.

Adapting the Bathroom for a Senior Living at Home

Bathrooms often require adjustments to improve both safety and hygiene access. Here are some examples:

• Install a grab bar near the shower or bathtub;
• Add more grab bars throughout the room if needed;
• Use a non-slip mat inside the tub or shower;
• Consider a raised toilet seat with armrests for better stability;
• An accessible bathtub with a door may be worth the investment for those with reduced mobility.
• Additional modifications can be made depending on personal needs and the existing setup.

Making the Bedroom Safe and Comfortable

The bedroom is a central and personal space—it should be both secure and pleasant. Key adjustments might include:

• Clear walking space to avoid tripping hazards (move plants, rearrange furniture);
• Use an ergonomic bed to assist with getting in and out;
• Install handrails on walls if needed;
• Ensure non-slip flooring or secure rugs;
• Add night lights for nighttime movement;
• Ensure all essential controls (light switch, remote, smart home systems) are accessible from the bed.

The goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, and dignified space tailored to the senior’s specific needs.

Aging at Home with Comfort and Human Connection

Adapting the environment is essential—but just as important is providing a supportive human presence. At Amika, our trained caregivers help with daily tasks while building trusting, compassionate relationships.

With our home care services for seniors, you can:

• Provide a safe living space without uprooting your loved one.
• Maintain their independence and dignity.
• Benefit from flexible, scalable services as needs evolve.

Contact Us for a Custom Home Adaptation