The Basics

No Cost Suggestions:

1. Carrying smaller loads. Use bags with straps or carts to keep hands free for balance.

2. Trim the garden. Prevent overgrowth from obstructing views, obscuring paths or causing tripping, secure drain flow, prevent standing water that becomes slick, clean slippery surfaces, regularly remove moss, mildew, or wet leaves from hardscapes.

3. Declutter. Remove potted plants, decor, and seasonal items from footpaths, store garden tools safely, keep hoses, rakes, and tools away from walkways.

4. Remove door mats.  If you must have doormats, consider textured outdoor mats choose low-profile outdoor rugs, if used, secure them well to prevent curling edges, check outdoor rugs and furniture seasonally, replace worn or warped pieces.

5.  Take your cane.  You will want to be ready for anything when away from home.  Always take your cane, walker or wheelchair so you are not caught off guard.

6. Avoid unnecesary trips.  Don't hesitate to change your plans if the weather turns or your not feeling well.  Reschedule appointments, keep food stocked, have a book handy and be ready to excersize at home.   

Low Costs Ideas:

7. Rely on contrasts.  Use paint, trim or brightly colored tape to helps define step and patio edges. Use decorative stones or borders to define walkway boundaries.

8. Wear the right shoes.   Flip flops and smooth-soled sandals aren’t ideal on uneven terrain.  Choose a stable rubber sole with adequate tred to be ready for anything you may encounter. Checkout our blog post on the best shoes for outside.

9. Upgrade lighting. Use timer controlled lights for entryways and steps to guide nighttime movement, install pathway lighting, solar lights or low-voltage fixtures help with visibility.  Check out our blog for other bright ideas about lighting.

10. Install non-slip surfaces. Use anti-slip paint on flat surfaces and consider durable stair tred approved for outdoor use on steps. Remember to check stair treds regularly and replace them as soon as you see damage.  

11. Smooth over stairs.  Add ramps and graded transitions where needed, particularly if you are using a walker or wheelchair.

12. Clear snow and ice. Snow melt and sand provide traction on ice and snow during colder months.  Keep them handy by your door and in your garage so you can use them immediately after a storm. Don't walk over the ice to get to the snow melt!

Do These if You Can:

13. Consider your furniture.  Use outdoor seating with wide, stable bases, furniture should be secure in wind and easy to use.

14. Repair uneven surfaces. Have a professional repair or replace cracked concrete or loose bricks.

15. Add handrails at entrances. Use a professional to install railings by stairs and raised patio and porchs.

16. Install Cameras.  Modern doorbells and monitoring cameras have voice cabilities so you can answer the door without getting up  while adding a higher level of secuirty. 

17. Choose Delivery Services.  Instead of going out in challenging weather or when you are not feeling well, consider delivery service such as Amazon Prime, Instacart and Uber Eats.

18. Hire professional services. For dependable and speed response to out door needs, considering hiring a landscaper, snow removal service and swimming pool service as needed.