As we age, everyday tasks can become more challenging. From vision changes to mobility issues and memory lapses, aging in place comes with its own set of hurdles. But the good news is that there are dozens of simple, creative solutions—life hacks—that can help older adults stay safe, independent, and confident at home.
We’ve gathered 27 practical aging in place tips, organized into helpful categories, to promote independent living for seniors. Check out of favorite daily living hacks for older adults!
Home Organization & Safety
- Use lazy Susans. If you have a hard time reaching items in the back of the refrigerator or cabinets, get a turntable or revolving tray.
- Secure extension cords or loose wires. Use tape or cable ties to keep cords organized and prevent dangerous falls.
- Use grip tape to keep rug corners down. Loose rugs are a common cause of falls. Use non-slip backing, grip tape, or double-sided tape to keep them in place—or consider removing them entirely.
- Use brightly colored duck tape to add contrast to stair treads. As you age, it might be harder to see the edges of stairs or floor transitions. Add a strip of bright tape to these areas so you can safely get around.
- Swap out round door knobs for lever handles. Round handles can be harder to turn as we get older and lose fine motor skills.
- Store cleaning supplies in a hanging shoe rack. Hang the rack over the pantry or laundry room door. This hack can help reduce falls since seniors won’t have to bend down and search under the sink for cleaning products.
- Pour liquids from large bottles into smaller ones to make them easier to hold. For example, if you buy liquid dish soap in bulk, pour it into a smaller bottle. Or look for liquids with a pump top so you don’t have to pick up the bottle.
Personal Care & Hygiene
- Put bar soap inside a pair of pantyhose and tie the top to the shower head or a grab bar. This hack helps prevent soap from falling on the floor. Just get the soap wet and lather it up in your hands as usual.
- Leverage foam to make small objects easier to hold. Use foam from hair rollers or pipe insulation to thicken handles on forks, spoons, toothbrushes, and pens for better grip.
- Use magnetic jewelry clasps so you don’t have to fiddle with small hooks. These clasps attach to existing jewelry pieces, making them easier to wear.
- Opt for stretchy shoelaces. They provide enough stretch to slip them on and off without tying and untying. But they stay secure enough that your shoes won’t come loose.
Technology
- Increase the font size on your phone. If you struggle to read text messages, increase the text size within your phone’s settings.
- Avoid sketchy websites by checking the website address bar. Stick to sites that start with HTTPS. The S stands for secure. Also, look for a small padlock next to the address bar.
- Carry a small light with you when you stay somewhere new. Or use the flashlight on your phone. Your light can help you get to the bathroom or walk around safely at night if you don’t know where the light switches are.
- Easily identify buttons on remote controls with stickers or nail polish. As your vision declines, small buttons on devices are harder to see. Adding contrast can help you continue to use your devices independently.
Medications
- Set an alarm for medications. Use a smartphone or a traditional alarm so you never miss a dose of medication.
- Ask for non-childproof lids from the pharmacist if you have a hard time opening medication bottles. Of course, make sure to keep these bottles away from your grandchildren.
- Keep medication lists handy. Take a picture on your phone. Send it to your kids if you are worried you won’t be able to find it in your albums. Or write down a list on a paper and put it on the fridge.
Daily Life
- Take a photo of where you park your car in a large parking lot. With a picture, you can easily see the row number or other landmarks to help you find your car.
- Color code your keys. Instead of fumbling around with your keyring, color code your keys with dots of bright nail polish. You could also have keys with different patterns made or purchase key covers.
- Make ice packs with a wet sponge or towel. Just place it in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer!
- If holding playing cards is difficult, place them in an upside-down ice cube tray. Or you can purchase holders for playing cards. Get an automatic shuffler, too, to enjoy your favorite card games.
Cooking & Eating
- Wear rubber gloves to get more grip when opening jars. You can also use silicone heat pads or oven mitts to make them easier to grasp.
- Buy pre-chopped produce. Most grocery stores sell chopped fruits, vegetables, and even herbs. These items are great for people with arthritis or difficulty with fine motor skills.
- Put rubber bands around cups or water bottles. Rubber bands add texture and grip to make them easier to hold.
Dressing & Mobility
- Put your belt through your belt loops before putting your pants on. This tip helps you avoid threading your belt behind your back. To take this tip to another level, consider belts with hook and loop fasteners instead of the traditional buckle.
- Make zippers easier to grab by attaching keychains, rubber bands, bobby pins, or safety pins to them. Then you can easily zip up your jacket wherever you go.
Aging Gracefully at Home
Living independently doesn’t mean doing everything by yourself. With a few smart life hacks and the right tools, aging in place can be more comfortable, convenient, and safe.
Need extra help around the house or just someone to check in? The team at Caring Senior Service is here to support your independence. Reach out to your local Caring office today to learn how our caregivers can help you live confidently at home.
