Ensuring accessibility for the elderly is essential for safety and comfort. Here are practical tips to adapt your home in a simple and efficient way.
Submitted at Oct 1, 2025, 4:00 AM
ARQTAB | Maycon Fogliene - The House of Being. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Amanda Bibiano)
Projeto de Felipe Carolo. (Ruy Teixeira/Divulgação)
An accessible home prevents accidents, improves mobility, and promotes a better quality of life, without sacrificing style or comfort. Considering these changes is an act of care that benefits not just the elderly, but all residents of the house.
The first step to creating a safe projects space is to evaluate the circulation area. Hallways and doorways must be wide enough to allow passage for walkers or wheelchairs if necessary.
Loose rugs should be avoided or fixed with non-slip tape to reduce the risk of falls. If there are steps, consider installing ramps with an appropriate slope, handrails on both sides of the stairs, or even a residential elevator.
(Pinterest/Divulgação)
Keeping the house organized is also crucial: furniture in the way or scattered objects can pose a danger. Invest in free and well-lit passages, facilitating movement. The more fluid the circulation is, the less effort will be required and the greater the safety for the elderly.
Well illuminated spaces are essential to avoid tripping and to enhance space perception. Prefer cooler lights and install lamps at strategic points, such as hallways, stairs, and entrances. Night presence lights are a great solution to guide the path to the bathroom or kitchen during nighttime, avoiding accidents.
Paola Ribeiro - Estúdio Verso. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Denilson Machado/CASACOR)
Switches should be at an accessible height, preferably near doors and easy to identify. Another tip is to use home automation to turn on lights with motion sensors or voice commands, bringing even more practicality to those with reduced mobility.
The bathroom is one of the places with the highest risk of falls, so it deserves special attention. Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower, ensuring stability when sitting, standing, or supporting oneself while bathing. Non-slip rugs and textured or matte-finished flooring help prevent slipping.
Felipe Fichberg e Eloy Fichberg - Pluralidade. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Marco Antonio/CASACOR)
Another practical solution is to raise the toilet seat to reduce the effort of squatting. Bath benches and handheld showers are also allies for those who have difficulty standing for long periods. The goal is to transform the bathroom into a functional and safe space, without compromising comfort.
The furniture should be designed to facilitate daily life. Sofas and chairs with the right height, allowing the feet to rest comfortably on the floor and stand up without difficulty, are essential. Prefer beds with moderate height, which do not require excessive effort to lie down or get up.
Isabella Nalon Arquitetura e Interiores - Refúgio Conexão. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Rafael Renzo/CASACOR)
It is also important to avoid very sharp corners, which can cause injuries in case of bumps. Non-slip surfaces and stable tables help create a safer environment. If necessary, use supportive cushions or orthopedic backs to improve comfort and posture.
Storing everyday items on shelves that are too high or too low can make reaching difficult and cause unnecessary risks. Ideally, position everything at waist height for easier handling. Cabinets with lightweight doors and large handles are easier to open and close securely.
ARQTAB | Maycon Fogliene - A Casa do Ser. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (Amanda Bibiano/CASACOR)
In the kitchen, opt for appliances that are easy to operate and have clearly visible buttons. Automation systems that turn off the stove or alert about open refrigerator doors are great allies. Technology can be a partner in promoting autonomy and preventing domestic accidents.
(Rafael Renzo/CASACOR)
CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base from casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.
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