Senior safety and home accessibility in North America

Recent data highlights growing concerns regarding senior safety and the necessity of home modifications to support aging in place across North America.

A survey by AARP indicates that a majority of U.S. adults aged 50 and older wish to remain in their current homes and communities. This desire is accompanied by a high demand for accessibility upgrades, including bathroom modifications like grab bars, entryway changes such as ramps, and smart-home security features. Rodney Harrell, AARP’s vice president of family, home, and community, noted that “most older adults want to stay in their homes, yet rising housing costs and limited options create serious barriers.”

Compounding these needs is a rise in fall-related risks. In the United States, fall deaths among older adults have increased by approximately 21% since 2018, while Canada has seen a 51% increase since 2017. Experts emphasize that seniors living alone face significantly higher risks. For those living alone, the time elapsed before help arrives is critical, as being left on the floor for an hour or more can roughly double the risk of death.

New research expands on these environmental risks. A study by the London School of Economics and Political Science found that poor housing conditions, such as faulty electrical or plumbing systems and cramped living spaces, significantly increase fall risks. In England, falls related to poor housing are estimated to cost approximately £1.2 billion annually in healthcare and care services. To mitigate these dangers, specialists recommend proactive measures such as widening hallways to accommodate mobility aids, improving lighting, and replacing standard tubs with walk-in showers.