Creating a Safe, Warm, and Engaging Home Environment for In-Home Care By Lance A. Slatton

By Lance A. Slatton

When caring for a loved one at home, especially as they age, it’s essential to balance safety with comfort and engagement. The goal is a home that not only minimizes risks but also feels inviting and supports well-being. Here’s a practical, human-centered guide with a checklist to help you create the ideal in-home care environment.

Essential Safety Steps

• Clear walkways and common areas
• Remove tripping hazards like clutter, loose rugs, and electrical cords
• Ensure furniture is arranged to allow easy movement, especially for those using walkers or wheelchairs

Adapt the Bathroom

• Install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub
• Use non-slip mats or adhesive strips
• Consider a raised toilet seat or shower chair for added stability

Improve Lighting

• Ensure all rooms, hallways, and staircases are well-lit
• Add night lights for safe nighttime navigation

Stair and Fall Prevention

• Keep stairs clear and install sturdy handrails on both sides
• Consider a stair lift if stairs become too challenging

Fire and Emergency Preparedness

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
• Have an emergency plan with contact numbers, medication lists, and quick-exit routes

Secure Hazardous Items

• Lock up or remove cleaning chemicals, medications, and sharp objects, especially if your loved one has cognitive impairment

Temperature and Comfort

• Set water heaters to a safe temperature to prevent scalding
• Maintain a comfortable room temperature and provide supportive bedding

Niceties That Make a Home Warm and Inviting

• Personalize the space
• Display family photos, cherished mementos, or artwork to evoke positive memories and a sense of belonging

Create Cozy Nooks

• Set up comfortable chairs with soft lighting and a small table for reading, hobbies, or relaxation

Engage the Senses

• Play soothing music or familiar songs
• Use aromatherapy with calming scents (safely, and never unattended)

Hobby and Activity Corners

• Dedicate space for favorite hobbies, such as puzzles, crafts, or books

Bring Nature Indoors

• Add plants or fresh flowers to brighten the space and connect with nature

Comfortable Furnishings

• Choose supportive chairs, cozy blankets, and inviting decor to make the home feel more welcoming

Engaging the Mind and Spirit

• Develop Memory Stations, which are specialized areas within memory care environments and even in-home, designed to evoke positive memories and foster engagement for individuals with dementia. They facilitate aging in place by providing familiar, meaningful activities that promote independence and emotional well-being.
• Create areas with photo albums or memory boxes to stimulate conversation and reminiscence

Puzzles and Games

• Offer jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, or board games to keep the mind active

Technology for Connection

• Introduce tablets or interactive devices for video calls with family, games, or music

Regular Social Interaction

• Encourage visits, calls, or video chats with friends and family to reduce isolation

Should You Engage an Aging in Place Specialist?

Engaging an aging-in-place specialist can be a wise investment, especially if you’re uncertain about modifications or want expert advice tailored to your loved one’s needs. These specialists assess the home for safety, accessibility, and comfort, recommend necessary changes, and often help coordinate services or equipment. They can also provide valuable insights into local resources and support networks. 

Lance A. Slatton, CSCM, is a healthcare professional with over 18 years in the healthcare industry. Lance is a senior case manager at Enriched Life Home Care Services in Livonia, MI. He is also the host of the podcast All Home Care Matters, a podcast and YouTube channel. By subscribing to All Home Care Matters, you will gain access to a wealth of information and tips that can help you provide the best possible home care for your loved one. Lance also produces and co-hosts three additional shows: Conscious Caregiving with L & L with Lori La Bey; The Caregiver’s Journal with Cindy and Christina Hardin-Weiss; and The Care Advocates with Dr. George Ackerman. Lance writes a monthly column on McKnight’s Home Care website, DailyCaring, and agebuzz. He was named a 50 under 50 for 2023 and was named the Top Healthcare Influencer for 2025. Lance’s new book, The All Home Care Matters Official Family Caregivers’ Guide, is a road map for family caregivers from the start of their caregiving journey to the end, and everything in between. Lance’s personal website is www.lanceaslatton.com, and he can be reached at [email protected]