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June is National Safety Month, and while that may not grab headlines like some other observances, it is one of the most relevant and important topics for families caring for aging loved ones. In homes across Passaic, Clifton, Paramus, Fair Lawn, and other towns in Western Bergen County, many older adults want to stay exactly where they feel most comfortable, in their own homes. But comfort does not always mean safety.
As care providers, we know that most falls, medication errors, and preventable injuries happen right at home. That is why now is the perfect time to pause, take a good look around, and ask: Is this home as safe as it could be?
Why Home Safety Matters More with Age
As we age, physical changes like reduced balance, slower reflexes, and impaired vision make navigating familiar environments more challenging. Add in chronic conditions like arthritis, Parkinson's disease, or memory loss, and the risk of injury only increases. According to the CDC, one in four Americans over the age of 65 falls each year. And those falls are a leading cause of hospitalization and long-term disability.
But here is the good news. Many of the risks are preventable with simple adjustments. A few small changes can make a big impact on daily safety and peace of mind.
A Room-by-Room Home Safety Guide
Let’s take a tour through the typical home and look at key areas where safety can be improved.
1. Entryways and Hallways
- Ensure that entrances are well-lit and free of clutter.
- Consider installing railings or grab bars on any steps.
- Remove or secure throw rugs, which are one of the biggest trip hazards.
2. Living Room
- Keep cords tucked away or secured along walls.
- Ensure furniture has enough clearance for walkers or canes to pass through.
- Use non-slip pads under area rugs or remove them altogether.
3. Kitchen
- Store frequently used items on easy-to-reach shelves.
- Use non-slip mats in front of the sink and stove.
- Make sure all appliances work properly and can be used safely.
4. Bathroom
- Install grab bars by the toilet and in the tub or shower.
- Use a shower chair and handheld showerhead if mobility is limited.
- Place non-skid mats both inside and outside the tub or shower.
5. Bedroom
- Ensure a clear path from the bed to the bathroom or hallway.
- Use nightlights or motion-activated lights.
- Keep glasses, medications, and a phone within arm’s reach.
6. Stairs
- Install sturdy handrails on both sides.
- Make sure stairs are well-lit and have visible edges.
- Consider adding non-slip treads.
7. General Tips
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
- Keep a list of emergency contacts posted in a visible location.
- Review medications regularly for side effects that might increase fall risk.
Emotional Safety Matters Too
Safety is not only about physical hazards. For many older adults in our communities, living alone can increase anxiety, especially if they are managing multiple health conditions. Knowing someone is regularly checking in, assisting with meals, or simply offering companionship can reduce that stress and prevent isolation-related issues like depression or cognitive decline.
How BrightStar Care of Passaic and Western Bergen Counties Supports Home Safety
At BrightStar Care, we go beyond routine caregiving. Our team is trained to assess and improve home environments with a focus on safety, independence, and dignity. Every client receives a personalized care plan created and overseen by a Registered Nurse, and that includes recommendations for home safety modifications when needed.
Here are a few ways we help:
- In-home safety assessments to identify fall risks and hazards
- Assistance with mobility and transfers to prevent accidents
- Medication reminders and management to avoid errors
- Meal prep and light housekeeping to reduce physical strain
- Companion care to provide social connection and oversight
- Post-hospitalization support to safely recover at home
Whether your loved one lives in Passaic, Hackensack, or Bergenfield, our caregivers are familiar with the local communities and understand the unique challenges families face here.
A Safer Home Starts Today
National Safety Month is a great reminder that a proactive approach can prevent emergencies down the line. You do not need to wait for a fall or a scare to start making changes. Walk through your loved one’s home with fresh eyes. Ask questions. Look for patterns. And if you need help, ask for it.
At BrightStar Care of Passaic and Western Bergen Counties, we believe that home should be a place of comfort, not concern. That is why we offer services designed to support not only health, but also security, confidence, and peace of mind.
Let us help you create a home environment that protects your loved one while honoring their independence. Because when the home is safe, everyone can breathe a little easier.
BrightStar Care® is Here to Help
At BrightStar Care® of Passaic and Western Bergen Counties, we offer a wide range of home care and medical staffing services that enrich the quality of life for those who need care from the comfort of their home. We strive to provide the full continuum of care to our community while keeping our focus on offering a higher standard of care. Offering unparalleled support for our local healthcare system while providing a variety of high-quality, compassionate care, we work to give our clients the best lives possible while also strengthening the broader community. Contact us through our website or call 973.321.7413, so that we can help you find the right support to fit your unique needs.