Home Safety & Mobility Blog

As we age, many of us want to remain in the comfort of our own homes, surrounded by familiar surroundings and loved ones. In fact, a 2023 survey of 1,000 adults aged 55 and above found that 89% prefer to age in place rather than move into an assisted living facility or nursing home. Aging in place allows seniors to maintain independence, quality of life, and meaningful relationships. However, over time, many require assistance with health management, home safety, daily activities, personal care, or household support. This is where home health care services play a vital role in helping seniors stay safe and comfortable while continuing to live in their own homes. The Role of Home Health Care in Aging in Place Aging is a unique and personal journey—some experience gradual changes, while others face sudden health challenges. Regardless of the pace, planning ahead and knowing what homecare options are available can provide peace of mind for seniors and their families. If a senior sustains an injury, receives a life-changing diagnosis, or needs help managing medications and medical conditions, a professional homecare provider can be a trusted partner in ensuring their health and well-being.

Caring for a loved one is challenging, and adding financial management to the mix can feel overwhelming. However, with the right approach, you can stay organized and confident in handling their financial well-being. 1. Start Financial Planning Before an Emergency Being proactive is key. Take the time now to get organized, gather essential documents, and clarify your role in managing finances. This preparation will be invaluable in case of an emergency when quick decisions and easy access to financial information are necessary. 2. Ensure Immediate Access to Financial Documents As your parents or loved ones age, keeping their critical financial documents organized is essential. These documents help protect their financial assets and assist in long-term planning. Some key records to keep include: • Estate planning documents • Insurance policies • Defined-benefit plan documents For a comprehensive list, check out our guide on What Financial Documents Do I Need to Keep for My Aging Parents? 3. Help Your Loved One Save and Invest Wisely Financial situations vary, but everyone can benefit from saving more. Work with your loved one to create a budget, identify ways to cut expenses, and explore investment opportunities if applicable. Consulting a financial advisor can provide valuable insight into long-term planning.

Aging at home is a priority for many seniors, but ensuring a safe environment is crucial. Falls and other home hazards can lead to serious injuries, making home modifications essential. From reducing fall risks to installing smart technology, here’s how to create a safer living space. 1. Reduce Fall Risks Falls are the leading cause of senior injuries. Simple modifications can significantly lower the risk: • Remove trip hazards like loose rugs and electrical cords. • Install grab bars in bathrooms and stairwells. • Use stairlifts to safely navigate multi-story homes. • Improve lighting in hallways, entryways, and staircases. • Ensure outdoor areas are free from cracks and obstacles. 2. Use Home Safety Devices Technology can enhance senior safety and independence: • Medical alert systems provide emergency assistance with the push of a button. • Automatic pill dispensers help manage medication schedules. • Smart home devices set reminders and control lighting. • GPS trackers prevent wandering for those with dementia. • Telehealth services offer remote medical consultations. 3. Create a Room-by-Room Safety Checklist Routine safety checks can prevent potential hazards: • Are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors working? • Are high-traffic areas well-lit and free of clutter? • Are grab bars and handrails secure? • Are emergency contacts easily accessible? 4. Home Modifications for Dementia For seniors with cognitive decline, safety becomes even more critical: • Use appliances with automatic shut-offs to prevent fire hazards. • Install hidden gas valves and secure dangerous household items. • Lock exterior doors and remove locks from bathrooms and bedrooms. • Create clear walkways to encourage mobility and prevent disorientation. 5. Schedule a Home Safety Inspection A professional assessment from Indiana Home Safety & Mobility can identify risks and recommend solutions. Inspections focus on key areas like bathrooms, kitchens, and staircases while providing options such as stairlifts, ramps, and accessibility modifications. 6. Make Accessibility Modifications Starting with small changes—like grab bars and nonslip mats—can make a home significantly safer. For seniors committed to aging in place, stairlifts, wheelchair ramps, and door widenings can enhance mobility and independence. Every senior deserves a home that supports their safety and independence. Proactive modifications today can prevent accidents tomorrow, ensuring peace of mind for both seniors and their families. Indiana Home Safety & Mobility specializes in home modifications to help seniors age in place safely. Contact us today for a free consultation! 1-844-723-8394 317-389-6966

When considering the installation of a stair lift in 2025, several factors influence the overall cost, including the type of staircase, specific user needs, and additional features. At Indiana Home Safety and Mobility, we offer free in-home consultations to provide precise pricing tailored to your unique requirements.

Walk-in tubs are a transformative solution for individuals seeking greater safety, comfort, and therapeutic benefits in their bathing experience. At Indiana Home Safety and Mobility, we specialize in offering ADA- and FDA-certified medical walk-in tubs designed to meet the specific needs of those with mobility challenges, individuals recovering from surgery, or anyone requiring additional support due to chronic conditions like neuropathy or arthritis. We are proud to be the primary vendor of these specialized tubs in the state of Indiana.

Aging in place is an increasingly popular choice for older adults, allowing them to stay close to loved ones, remain in familiar surroundings, and often save money compared to assisted living or nursing homes. However, while the benefits of staying at home are undeniable, there are hidden costs to consider. Below, we’ll explore some of these often-overlooked expenses and provide insights on how to prepare for them. 1. Home Health Aides If you want to maintain independence but need help with daily tasks, home health aides and skilled nurses can provide assistance with medications, light housekeeping, and companionship. The national average cost of a home health aide is around $27 per hour, or $1,775 a month for part-time assistance. While this is generally more affordable than senior housing options, it’s still a significant expense. Medicare may cover short-term care for recovery from an illness or injury, but personal care and housekeeping services are not typically included. 2. Transportation and Mobility Aids Limited mobility can make it harder to leave the house, potentially leading to isolation and depression. Low-cost transportation options like bus lines, paratransit services, or ride programs offered by healthcare networks can help. Medicaid holders may even qualify for free paratransit services. Additionally, investing in mobility aids—such as scooters, walkers, or stair lifts—can improve accessibility at home and reduce reliance on outside help. Indiana Home Safety and Mobility offers a range of solutions tailored to your needs, helping to ensure safety and comfort. 3. Home Technology and Security Upgrades Today’s seniors are increasingly embracing technology to improve safety and convenience. Popular upgrades include: • Medical alert devices: $20 to $45/month • Fitness trackers: $80 to $400 • Home security systems: $10 to $53/month • Smart assistants: $60 to $449 These systems enhance independence while offering peace of mind for both seniors and their families. 4. Vital Energy Efficiency Improvements Energy-efficient upgrades can save money and improve comfort, particularly during emergencies. Some options include: • LED light bulbs: $4 per bulb • New windows: $800 to $2,000 each • Portable generators: $4,000 and up • Solar panels or re-blown insulation: Costs vary but can provide significant savings long-term.

Learn what to expect during the maintenance of a stairlift installation in Indianapolis, IN, with Indiana Home Safety & Mobility LLC. Call 844-723-8394!

Retirement planning is a journey marked by important milestones that can open doors to new opportunities, help you maximize savings, and ensure financial security. These ages represent key moments where action is either required or highly beneficial for securing your future. Below, we outline seven key ages and their significance in retirement planning.

When shopping for a walk-in tub, one important feature often goes overlooked: the height of the threshold. Walk-in tubs from Indiana Home Safety & Mobility are designed to provide a safe, therapeutic, and comfortable bathing experience for people of all ages and mobility levels. However, not all walk-in tubs are created equal. In some models, the threshold can be as high as 7 inches, making entry more challenging and increasing the risk of falls. Our walk-in tubs feature a low step-in threshold , allowing you to enter and exit effortlessly while ensuring your safety every time you bathe. Keep reading to discover the top three benefits of choosing a walk-in tub with a low step-in design. Why is a Low Threshold Important? A lower step-in threshold is becoming a top priority for homeowners who want to age in place safely and comfortably . By reducing the curb between the bathroom floor and the tub, a low-threshold design makes it significantly easier for individuals with limited mobility to step in and out of the tub. This innovative feature enhances accessibility and stability without sacrificing style or comfort. 1. Safe Entry Traditional bathtubs can stand as high as 24 inches, requiring you to lift your leg over the side, which increases the likelihood of losing balance. On the other hand, sunken tubs often lack rail support, adding another layer of risk. A walk-in tub with a low-entry threshold offers the safest solution. It minimizes the step required to enter the tub, making the transition from standing to sitting smoother and reducing the risk of slips and falls. For maximum safety, combine this feature with built-in handrails and slip-resistant surfaces for added stability and peace of mind. 2. Independence Walk-in tubs are specifically designed to support individuals with limited mobility. A low step-in threshold lets you maintain your independence , allowing you to bathe in privacy without the need for assistance. When selecting a walk-in tub, pay close attention to the height of the threshold. A lower step-in threshold ensures a more accessible bathing experience, empowering you to remain self-sufficient in the comfort of your own home. 3. Enhanced Style A walk-in tub with a low threshold seamlessly integrates function and aesthetics. Its sleek design creates the illusion of continuous flooring, making your bathroom appear more spacious and modern. This stylish feature not only enhances the appearance of your bathroom but also adds long-term value to your home. Whether you’re planning to age in place or considering future resale value, a low step-in walk-in tub is a wise and stylish investment. Ready to Step Into Comfort and Safety? When choosing a walk-in tub for your home, select one that prioritizes your safety and comfort. At Indiana Home Safety & Mobility , we offer walk-in tubs with some of the lowest thresholds in the industry , ensuring a safe and effortless bathing experience. Contact us today to learn more about how our walk-in tubs can enhance your safety, independence, and quality of life. Let us help you create a bathroom designed for the future while meeting your needs today.