Know What's Important: Aging in Place Checklist

As our loved ones age, they will likely express the preference to stay in the comfort of their own homes rather than transition to assisted living facilities. This choice allows seniors to maintain their independence and familiar surroundings while enjoying the convenience of living in a space tailored to their needs.

To make this transition successful, a thorough aging in place checklist is essential. It ensures a home is safe, comfortable, and functional while helping seniors and caregivers alike plan for future adjustments.

Home Safety Modifications

According to the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, 88% of seniors said that it was important to them to stay in their homes– but almost half of them haven’t thought about home modifications. These steps can help your loved ones modify their homes for a longer, healthier stay. 

Lighting and Visibility

Proper lighting plays a significant role in preventing accidents. Hallways, staircases, and frequently used rooms should have sufficient lighting to reduce tripping hazards. Installing night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways can guide seniors during late-night trips. Additionally, motion-sensor lights are a practical upgrade to eliminate the need for switches in dim areas.

Flooring and Trip Hazards

Falls are one of the most common risks for seniors. To minimize this danger, secure loose rugs with non-slip backing or remove them entirely. Replace high-pile carpeting or slippery floors with non-slip surfaces like vinyl or laminate. Decluttering walkways is another simple yet effective way to create a safer environment.

Stair and Handrail Accessibility

Navigating stairs can become challenging with age. Installing sturdy handrails on both sides of staircases provides extra support. If stairs are too difficult to manage, consider adding a stairlift or replacing stairs with ramps for smoother mobility.

Bathroom Safety

The bathroom is often the most accident-prone area in a home. Safety upgrades such as grab bars near the toilet and in the shower, non-slip mats, and a shower seat can significantly reduce risks. An elevated toilet seat can also make getting up and down easier. Together, these adjustments transform the bathroom into a more accessible space that’s safer for aging residents.

If your senior loved one is having safety issues in the bathroom, a home health aide can help them with toileting, keeping them safe and helping maintain dignity and independence.

Medical and Health Considerations

Modern medicine helps us live longer, healthier lives—but it also brings additional challenges, especially when multiple medications come into play. Your senior relative (or you, if you’re preparing for yourself!) need to think about how to manage these medical concerns.

Medication Management

Organizing medications is important for avoiding missed doses or accidental double-dosing. Pill organizers with daily compartments or automatic dispensers that provide reminders can simplify this task. Setting a consistent routine for taking medications ensures adherence and reduces confusion. Medication support is a normal part of home healthcare for seniors, and a home health nurse or aide can help administer medications and make sure they’re stored properly.

Emergency Response Systems

Personal emergency response systems (PERS) offer peace of mind for seniors living independently. These devices allow users to call for help with the push of a button, ensuring assistance is readily available in case of a fall or medical emergency. Some systems include fall detection, adding another layer of protection.

Access to Medical Equipment

Having necessary medical tools within reach is essential for daily living. This may include walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen tanks, or blood pressure monitors. Ensuring the home is equipped with these aids allows seniors to manage their health needs conveniently.

Mobility and Accessibility

Wheelchair use has steadily grown in seniors; in 2011, about 5% of seniors used wheelchairs, while today the number is over 7%. As mobility aids become lighter and more affordable, more seniors will give themselves the opportunity to extend their ability to get around on their own.

Doorway and Hallway Widths

For seniors who rely on wheelchairs or walkers, it’s important to ensure doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate these devices. Expanding narrow doorways or installing offset hinges can provide the extra space needed. This is especially true for power chair users, since some of these models are wider than standard doorways.

Kitchen Accessibility

The kitchen is a vital part of daily living, so it’s important to make it functional. Store frequently used items in lower cabinets or on countertops for easy access. Adjustable shelving or pull-out drawers can also minimize the need for bending or reaching.

Bedroom Safety and Accessibility

Making the bedroom safe and accessible promotes better sleep and nighttime mobility. Adjusting the bed height to a comfortable level, installing grab handles near the bed, and organizing items like flashlights and phones within arm’s reach can improve independence.

Personal Care and Daily Activities

For many seniors, aging in place isn’t just about staying home; it’s about staying in community, keeping up routines, maintaining dignity, and living the life they love. 

Assistance with Daily Living

For seniors who require help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation, arranging professional caregiving services or seeking assistance from family members can help maintain their quality of life. Small modifications, like handheld showerheads or easy-to-use utensils, can enhance daily routines.

Social Interaction and Activities

Loneliness and isolation can have negative effects on physical and mental health. Engaging in regular social activities, hobbies, or community events can improve overall well-being. Virtual programs or local senior centers offer opportunities for connection and mental stimulation.

Transportation Options

Reliable transportation is essential for appointments, grocery shopping, and maintaining an active social life. Services like rideshare programs or community transportation options can support seniors who are no longer comfortable driving.

Financial and Legal Planning