The Basics

No Cost Suggestions:

1. Don’t multitask. Focus on one movement at a time; avoid talking on the phone while you are cooking.

2. Take your time. Slow, intentional movement helps avoid slips from sudden turns or pivots.

3. Remove throw rugs.  If you keep rugs in your kitchen, opt for rubber-backed rugs or anti-fatigue mats near the sink and stove.

4. Declutter.  Remove baskets and loose items from pathways; consider putting these away or, if used regularly, keeping them at counter height.

5. Widen pathways.   Move or remove furninture so it is ease to pass through the kitchen and dinning rooms.

6. Everything within reach.  Store everyday cookware, utensils and pantry items at waist to shoulder height. Consider open shelves and mounted utensil racks to optimize areas within reach.

7. Clean Floors.  Keep paper towel handy to wipe up spills and splashes as soon as they occur.  Clean regularly, grease buildup or crumbs can make floors slick.

Low Cost Ideas:

8. Secure electrical cords.  Tape down or tie away cords from small appliances to prevent tripping.  Check out our blog post on securing cords.

9. Maintain good lighting. Install bright overhead lightbulbs, make sure they are all working.  Consider under cabinet lighting if you can. Check out our blog post on lighting ideas.

10. Avoid glass. Use plastic containers for shelf and counter storage.  Make sure containers are easy to open and close if you have weak hands.

11. Consider your pets.  Remove all pet toys and loose pet accessories from the kitchen, install gates to prevent surprise visits from pets, keep water and food bowls out of pathways and off the floor so they are easier for you to reach. 

12. Avoid unstable step ladder. When you have to access a top shelf item, use a sturdy step ladder with side handles and an attached tray.  Consider installing pull-down shelves when practicle.

13. Choose stable chairs. Avoid swivel and rolling chairs, attach non-slip leg caps to all chairs and counter stools.

Do These If You Can:

14. Repair the floor.  Check for loose tiles or floorboards. Have a professional repair or replace uneven surfaces promptly.

15. Hire professional services. For dependable and routine cleaning, considering hiring a cleaning service.  For permanent, mounted items hire a dependable contractor that is a Certified Aging in Place installer.