For many families in Naples and Fort Myers, bringing care into the home allows loved ones to maintain independence, dignity, and comfort — while still receiving the daily support they need. However, before a caregiver or nurse arrives, it’s a good idea to ensure your home environment is safe, accessible, and comfortable for everyone involved.
Florida homes come with unique considerations — tile floors, humidity, hurricane season, and frequent visitors — all of which can affect how safe and efficient a care space feels. Whether you’re setting up for companion care or skilled nursing visits, here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare.
Create a Clear and Accessible Space. A good place to start is with in-home high traffic areas by removing loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter that might cause trips or falls. Make sure hallways and entryways are wide enough for walkers, wheelchairs, or medical equipment. Rearranging furniture to maximize a caregiver’s easy access to beds, chairs, and bathrooms is also a must.
Ensure Adequate Lighting. Use bright, even lighting in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms, and consider adding night lights. Replace burnt-out bulbs promptly — especially during early evenings when visibility drops. Southwest Florida’s frequent afternoon storms can cause power flickers — so keep flashlights or battery lanterns nearby just in case.
Make Bathrooms Fall-Safe. Install grab bars near toilets and showers, use non-slip mats inside and outside the shower or tub, and consider a shower chair and handheld showerhead for added stability. BrightStar Care’s nurses often assist families in identifying safety risks and can recommend adaptive devices suited for your loved one’s mobility level.
Check Temperature and Air Quality. Florida heat and humidity can make it difficult for older adults to stay comfortable. Try setting your air conditioning to maintain a steady, moderate temperature rather than constant changes based on daily weather fluctuations. Use dehumidifiers if the home feels damp, and make sure air filters are replaced regularly.
Organize Medications and Medical Equipment. Store medications in a cool, dry, clearly labeled area and keep a master medication list handy for caregivers and visiting nurses. It’s also a good idea to store medical equipment properly and dispose of expired medications by checking their labels regularly.
Secure the Home Against Hazards. Check for loose tiles, slippery surfaces, or uneven thresholds. Install handrails on any steps or porches and make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Have an emergency contact list posted visibly — include your BrightStar Care in-home care provider as well as the office, primary physicians, and local hospitals.
Prepare for Florida’s Weather. Keep a hurricane preparedness kit in place: bottled water, flashlights, medications, and extra batteries. Know where to go if evacuation is necessary — caregivers can assist with this plan – and inform your loved one’s care team of your hurricane plan and backup contacts.
Make It Feel Like Home for the Caretaker, too. Although safety is essential for both your loved one and caretaker, comfort matters, too. Allow the caretaker to bring personal items, foods or even their own blankets that can make them feel at home too.
Partnering with BrightStar Care Naples & Ft. Myers Our nurse-led home care team helps families across Lee and Collier Counties prepare their homes for safe, high-quality care. Whether you need a few hours of personal care each week or 24/7 skilled nursing, our team ensures your loved one receives compassionate support in a setting that feels like home. If you’re ready to begin or want a complimentary in-home safety assessment, contact BrightStar Care of Naples & Ft. Myers today. Call: 239-992-4779 Visit: www.brightstarcare.com/locations/ft-myers-naples/
Florida homes come with unique considerations — tile floors, humidity, hurricane season, and frequent visitors — all of which can affect how safe and efficient a care space feels. Whether you’re setting up for companion care or skilled nursing visits, here’s a practical checklist to help you prepare.
Create a Clear and Accessible Space. A good place to start is with in-home high traffic areas by removing loose rugs, electrical cords, or clutter that might cause trips or falls. Make sure hallways and entryways are wide enough for walkers, wheelchairs, or medical equipment. Rearranging furniture to maximize a caregiver’s easy access to beds, chairs, and bathrooms is also a must.
Ensure Adequate Lighting. Use bright, even lighting in hallways, staircases, and bathrooms, and consider adding night lights. Replace burnt-out bulbs promptly — especially during early evenings when visibility drops. Southwest Florida’s frequent afternoon storms can cause power flickers — so keep flashlights or battery lanterns nearby just in case.
Make Bathrooms Fall-Safe. Install grab bars near toilets and showers, use non-slip mats inside and outside the shower or tub, and consider a shower chair and handheld showerhead for added stability. BrightStar Care’s nurses often assist families in identifying safety risks and can recommend adaptive devices suited for your loved one’s mobility level.
Check Temperature and Air Quality. Florida heat and humidity can make it difficult for older adults to stay comfortable. Try setting your air conditioning to maintain a steady, moderate temperature rather than constant changes based on daily weather fluctuations. Use dehumidifiers if the home feels damp, and make sure air filters are replaced regularly.
Organize Medications and Medical Equipment. Store medications in a cool, dry, clearly labeled area and keep a master medication list handy for caregivers and visiting nurses. It’s also a good idea to store medical equipment properly and dispose of expired medications by checking their labels regularly.
Secure the Home Against Hazards. Check for loose tiles, slippery surfaces, or uneven thresholds. Install handrails on any steps or porches and make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Have an emergency contact list posted visibly — include your BrightStar Care in-home care provider as well as the office, primary physicians, and local hospitals.
Prepare for Florida’s Weather. Keep a hurricane preparedness kit in place: bottled water, flashlights, medications, and extra batteries. Know where to go if evacuation is necessary — caregivers can assist with this plan – and inform your loved one’s care team of your hurricane plan and backup contacts.
Make It Feel Like Home for the Caretaker, too. Although safety is essential for both your loved one and caretaker, comfort matters, too. Allow the caretaker to bring personal items, foods or even their own blankets that can make them feel at home too.
Partnering with BrightStar Care Naples & Ft. Myers Our nurse-led home care team helps families across Lee and Collier Counties prepare their homes for safe, high-quality care. Whether you need a few hours of personal care each week or 24/7 skilled nursing, our team ensures your loved one receives compassionate support in a setting that feels like home. If you’re ready to begin or want a complimentary in-home safety assessment, contact BrightStar Care of Naples & Ft. Myers today. Call: 239-992-4779 Visit: www.brightstarcare.com/locations/ft-myers-naples/