Here in Aberdeen, our homes are our sanctuaries. They’re filled with memories and a deep sense of comfort. For many older adults, the idea of leaving that behind is unthinkable. The good news is that with the right support and some smart adjustments, ageing safely and independently at home is entirely possible.
At Potters Independent Living, we help families across Aberdeen every day to create safer living environments for their loved ones. Often, it’s the small changes that make the biggest difference.
If you’re worried about an ageing parent or relative living alone, here are five essential home modifications to consider for their safety and your peace of mind.
1. Install Grab Rails and Handrails
The Risk: Slippery surfaces in bathrooms and on stairs are a major hazard. A loss of balance can lead to a fall, which is one of the biggest threats to an older person’s independence.
The Solution: Professionally installed grab rails next to the toilet and inside the shower or bath provide crucial support for sitting down and standing up. Don’t forget sturdy handrails on both sides of stairways and any steps leading into the house—a common necessity in many Aberdeen homes.
Quick Tip: Ensure rails are installed into wall studs, not just plasterboard, to guarantee they can take a person’s full weight.
2. Transform the Bathroom with a Walk-In Shower or Seat
The Risk: Stepping over a high bathtub rim is a precarious manoeuvre. Wet, slippery surfaces compound the danger.
The Solution: A walk-in shower with a low threshold is the gold standard for bathroom safety. If that’s not immediately feasible, a strong shower chair or bench and a hand-held showerhead allow for bathing while seated, significantly reducing the risk of falls.
Quick Tip: Place a non-slip mat outside the shower or bath as well to soak up water and prevent slips on hard flooring.
3. Improve Lighting Throughout the Home
The Risk: As we age, our eyes need more light to see clearly. Poor lighting, especially in hallways, landings, and on stairs, can obscure obstacles and make navigating the home dangerous, particularly during our long Aberdeen winters.
The Solution: Add brighter, energy-efficient bulbs to existing fixtures. Install automatic night lights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms to provide a safe path during nighttime trips. Ensure light switches are easily accessible at both ends of a corridor or the top and bottom of the stairs.
Quick Tip:
Motion-sensor lights are a fantastic, hands-free solution for cupboards, landings, and exterior paths.
4. Declutter and Secure Tripping Hazards
The Risk: Loose rugs, electrical cords, cluttered walkways, and general household clutter are some of the most common causes of trips and falls.
The Solution: Remove throw rugs or secure them firmly with strong double-sided tape. Tuck cables and cords away against walls. Keep pathways clear, especially between the bedroom and bathroom. Ensure frequently used items are in easy-to-reach cupboards, avoiding the need for unsteady step-stools.
Quick Tip: Involve your loved one in a gentle decluttering session. It’s a practical task and a chance to spend quality time together.
5. Consider a Personal Alarm System
The Risk: The fear of having a fall and not being able to call for help is a major source of anxiety for both older people and their families.
The Solution: A personal alarm—worn as a pendant or wristband—allows your loved one to call for help at the press of a button, 24 hours a day. Many modern systems also include fall detection technology. This provides immense reassurance, knowing that even if they can’t reach a phone, help can be on its way.
Quick Tip: Research providers that offer services specifically covering the Aberdeen area to ensure reliable connectivity.
How Domiciliary Care Supports a Safe Home
While these modifications create a safer environment, the human element is irreplaceable. Our professional carers in Aberdeen do more than just assist with personal care; they are a second pair of eyes.
During their visits, they can:
- Identify potential new risks (like a loose carpet edge or a new clutter hotspot).
- Assist with mobility around the home, providing a steadying arm.
- Ensure that safety features are being used correctly.
- Provide companionship, reducing the isolation that can sometimes lead to rushed or inattentive behaviour.
Creating a safe home is a journey, and you don’t have to do it alone.
If you’re assessing your loved one’s home in Aberdeen and would like a friendly, professional opinion, we are here to help. Contact – Potters Independent Living today for a free, no-obligation home safety assessment. Let’s work together to make their home a safe haven for years to come.