Home Safety Check

Home Safety Check: 10 Places Most Seniors Overlook When Trying to Age in Place

Most people want to age in place, to stay in the homes they love, surrounded by comfort and familiarity. But even the most beautiful homes can hide unexpected risks.
As a home-wellness professional, I’ve learned that it’s rarely the “big” things that cause problems, it’s the small, overlooked details that quietly add up over time.

These ten areas are where I most often find safety hazards during a SAFE Home Check, and fixing them early can mean the difference between confidence and crisis.

1. Flooring Transitions

That small lip between tile and carpet might not seem like a big deal, but it’s one of the most common causes of trips and falls.
Look for uneven thresholds, loose rugs, or curled-up corners — especially near entryways and bathrooms.

Pro Tip: Replace throw rugs with non-slip mats or eliminate them altogether.

2. Lighting

Poor lighting = poor visibility. Many Arizona homes were designed with dramatic ambiance, not function.
Add bright, evenly distributed LED lighting in hallways, stairs, and closets. Consider motion-activated nightlights for bathrooms and pathways to the kitchen.

3. Bathrooms

Bathrooms are where over 70% of home falls happen. The combination of water, tile, and tight spaces makes them high-risk zones. Install grab bars near the toilet and shower, use slip-resistant flooring, and consider converting a tub to a walk-in shower.

4. Entryways

Front steps, porches, and garages are often forgotten during home safety updates.
Check for loose bricks, uneven concrete, and lighting gaps. Adding a sturdy handrail and anti-slip mats can make entering and exiting your home worry-free.

5. Kitchen Storage

As we age, reaching high cabinets or bending low can cause strain or imbalance. Pull-down racks and slide-out drawers are game-changers for accessibility. Reorganize your kitchen so everyday items are within easy reach, waist to shoulder height.

6. Electrical Cords & Outlets

Too many cords running across walkways? That’s an accident waiting to happen.
Consolidate electronics, use cord clips or covers, and add additional outlets where you need them most especially near beds and favorite chairs.

7. Stairs

Stairs should always have two handrails, consistent lighting, and visible edges.
If your vision has changed, add contrasting tape to the edge of each step so you can see the depth clearly. Especially pay attention to the step-ups/step-downs and eliminate them when you can.

8. Outdoor Areas

Arizona’s patios, driveways, and walkways take a beating from sun and monsoon season.
Cracks, uneven pavers, or gravel walkways can become serious tripping hazards. Keep paths smooth, shaded, and well-lit for evening safety.

9. Bedroom Setup

Your bedroom should be your sanctuary, not a maze.
Keep pathways clear of clutter, add touch lamps near the bed, and make sure you can easily reach your phone, glasses, and water at night.

10. Home Systems

Older homes often have aging HVAC, water heaters, or smoke detectors that aren’t functioning as efficiently (or safely) as they should. Regular maintenance keeps your home comfortable and secure year-round, especially in Arizona’s extreme heat.

The Bottom Line

Aging in place safely doesn’t mean giving up beauty or independence, it means being intentional about how your home supports you. Your home should age WITH you, not against you! Each small improvement adds up to a safer, easier, more confident daily life.