The Critical Connection Between Home Safety and Senior Health

Aging in place has become a priority for many seniors who want to maintain their independence and continue living in the comfort of their own Minnesota homes. However, as we age, our homes can present safety challenges that can impact both physical health and overall well-being. A well-maintained, secure, and accessible home environment is crucial to ensuring senior wellness. In fact, The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that an average of 2.9 million people aged 65 or older are treated in hospitals each year due to injuries sustained at home or on their property. 

An unsafe or poorly maintained home can increase the risk of injuries and stress, ultimately diminishing a senior's quality of life and ability to age in place comfortably. By proactively addressing these concerns, we can create a living space that supports independence and enhances overall well-being for seniors within the Minnesota communities that we serve. At TruBlue of Plymouth and Maple Grove, we specialize in handyman and home maintenance services designed to make aging in place safer and more comfortable, empowering seniors to live confidently and securely in their homes.

Home Safety: Preventing Falls and Enhancing Well-Being

Ensuring home safety is crucial for seniors, as it not only reduces the risk of accidents but also fosters confidence and independence. A secure living environment allows seniors to navigate their homes without fear of injury while providing peace of mind for family members. As the CDC states, "Each year, millions of people aged 65 and older experience falls, with more than one out of four older adults falling annually." These falls often lead to serious injuries such as hip fractures and head trauma, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.

Many falls are caused by preventable household hazards.

How TruBlue of Plymouth and Maple Grove Can Help:

One of the most valuable services we offer is our home assessment for seniors aging in place. If you’re concerned about your senior loved one’s safety at home, our assessment helps identify fall risks, accessibility challenges, and mobility hazards that may not be immediately obvious. We provide a detailed report with recommendations to make their home safer and more accessible, giving you peace of mind. This includes evaluating indoor and outdoor lighting, ensuring walking surfaces are even, checking that door knobs and handles are easy to use, and addressing other key areas to support their independence and well-being.

Based on the results of this home assessment, we can help complete important projects to enhance safety and accessibility for your senior loved one, such as:

• Installing grab bars in bathrooms and near staircases
• Removing tripping hazards, like loose rugs and clutter
• Improving lighting in hallways and high-traffic areas
• Ensuring stair railings are secure and sturdy
• Installing an emergency alert system or personal alarm for added peace of mind
• Securing loose cords or wires to prevent tripping
• Adjusting countertop height or adding accessible shelving for easier reach
• Improving outdoor walkways and ensuring safe, even surfaces for entry and exit

Home Safety Modifications: Mobility

Many seniors experience reduced mobility due to age-related conditions like arthritis or muscle weakness. Approximately 35% of individuals aged 70—and the majority of those over 85—experience mobility limitations. When a home isn’t designed to accommodate these changes, everyday tasks can become challenging and even hazardous. Simple activities such as reaching for items in a cabinet, stepping over thresholds, or climbing stairs may pose a challenge for seniors with mobility challenges. For those using mobility aids, an unmodified home can be even more frustrating, making it harder to age in place safely. Narrow doorways may not accommodate wheelchairs or walkers, uneven flooring can create tripping hazards, and stairs without railings can become inaccessible. Everyday tasks—like maneuvering through tight spaces, reaching for light switches, or accessing the bathroom—can become exhausting and unsafe. Without proper modifications, seniors may feel a loss of independence and struggle with daily routines. 

At TruBlue Plymouth and Maple Grove, we can help in a variety of ways, including:

• Widening doorways
• Installing ramps
• Lowering kitchen countertops and cabinets
• Replacing door knobs with lever-style handles
• Helping to maintain home through a home maintenance plan

Home Safety Modifications: Bathroom Safety

The bathroom is one of the most hazardous areas in the home for seniors due to slippery surfaces and confined spaces, which increase the risk of falls. In fact, more than one in four older adults falls each year, with many incidents occurring in the bathroom. Without proper safety modifications, activities such as stepping into the bathtub or standing for long periods can be dangerous. Working with a reputable contractor or handyman service to implement appropriate modifications can significantly reduce the risk of bathroom accidents and make activities of daily living safer.

Our professional handyman team can help with:

• Bathroom remodeling to improve safety and accessibility
• Bestbath® bath and shower installations for a more comfortable bathing experience
• CleanCut bath modifications to create safer, step-in access
• Grab bars by the toilet and in the shower

Technology and Home Safety: Smart Solutions for Seniors 

Advancements in smart home technology are making it easier for seniors to age in place. At TruBlue, we install smart devices that enhance accessibility, safety, and daily convenience.

From voice-activated assistants to automated lighting and security systems, these innovations promote independence by improving home functionality. Motion-sensor lighting helps prevent trips and falls at night, while smart doorbells and security cameras provide peace of mind.

Some of the most beneficial smart home upgrades include:

• Voice-activated assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Home) for hands-free control of lights, thermostats, and medication reminders.
• Smart thermostats that automatically adjust temperatures for comfort.
• Automated lighting that brightens dark spaces when motion is detected.
• Smart locks and video doorbells for enhanced security and remote access.
• Medical alert systems for immediate assistance at the press of a button.

A Safer Home for a Confident Future

Creating a safe and accessible home is essential for seniors who wish to maintain their independence and quality of life. By addressing common household hazards, making key safety modifications, and integrating smart technology, aging in place can be a comfortable and secure reality. At TruBlue of Plymouth and Maple Grove, we are committed to helping seniors and their families find peace of mind through professional handyman services, home assessments, and customized safety solutions. Whether you need minor adjustments or a complete home safety overhaul, our team is here to ensure that your loved one’s home remains a place of comfort, security, and independence for years to come. Contact us today to learn how we can help make aging in place safer and more manageable.