Most older people want to stay in their own home for as long as possible, and with the right support, they often can. Here are practical steps to make a home safer and easier to live in, from quick wins to larger adaptations.
Start with the quick, low-cost wins
- Improve lighting, especially on stairs and landings, and add night lights.
- Remove trip hazards, loose rugs, trailing cables and clutter.
- Fit grab rails by the toilet, bath and front step.
- Add a raised toilet seat and a non-slip bath or shower mat.
- Consider a personal alarm or telecare pendant for reassurance.
Tackle the stairs
If the stairs are becoming a struggle, a stairlift is often the single most life-changing adaptation, far cheaper and less disruptive than moving. For homes over several floors, a through-floor home lift is an alternative.
Make bathing safer
Bathrooms are where many falls happen. A walk-in bath or level-access shower lets your parent wash safely and independently. A comfortable riser recliner chair also helps those who struggle to stand from a normal seat.
Get help with the cost
You may not have to pay the full price. The means-tested Disabled Facilities Grant can fund adaptations up to £30,000 in England, and disabled people pay 0% VAT. Try our free grant checker to see what help might be available.