As baby boomers continue to gray (don’t remind us) while remaining active, engaged, and connected to their homes, a number of resources have recently been published providing tips and ideas to help older residents age with grace in the places where they live.

“More than a quarter of U.S. households are headed by someone 65 or older, a number that keeps growing,” write Gene Myers and Maddie McGay in this feature article that ran in the Sunday, June 8, 2025, Tennessean Real Estate section, and “77% of Americans over 50 want to remain in their homes as they age, according to AARP.”

Closer to home, the Tennessee population is experiencing significant growth thanks in large part to aging baby boomers, especially the 65+ age group, according to UT’s Boyd Center for Business and Economic Research. Between 2010 and 2020, the Volunteer State’s 65-and-up population jumped by 326,000, and the retirement-age population grew by almost 60,000 between 2020 and 2022.

That growth is expected to continue as the boomer cohort transitions into retirement, which makes it all the more important to provide help for those living in their homes. With that in mind, here are some ideas to make living at home safer and more enjoyable for seasoned residents.

Start with a Home Assessment

“The first step typically involves an assessment by an occupational therapist,” one expert told USA Today. “Often, it’s prompted by a medical event that necessitates accommodations. The therapist will recommend ways to make a home safer and more accessible.”

Fall-Proof the Home

Falls are a leading cause of injury for seniors, according to the National Institute on Aging. Tips to lessen the risk include:

• Secure rugs with nonslip pads and to ensure that paths are clear of clutter.
• Add handrails and grab bars in critical areas such as bathrooms, along staircases, and in hallways.
• Install motion-sensor lights for hallways, staircases and entrances.
• Seniors, wear smart devices that monitor heart rates and sleep patterns and detect falls (they also alert emergency services if necessary).
• Devices like Google Home or Amazon Echo allow seniors to control lights with voice commands (they can also lock doors and operate televisions).”
• Remove tripping hazards like rugs, cords, and clutter from walkways.

Make easy renovations to increase safety

• Add a lockbox outside “so that if the homeowner does fall or have some other accident, and they don't have family nearby, first responders can easily gain access to the home.”
• Install cameras (similar to crib cams) so live-in help or relatives can track seniors as they move around their home for further peace of mind.
• Consider home security systems and alarm systems to detect hazards.

Encourage social interaction and engagement

• Help seniors continue their hobbies, join social groups, or attend community events.
• Use video calls to stay connected with family and friends.
• Consider adult day programs at senior centers or churches for structured activities and social interaction.

Keep the body and brain active

• Encourage physical activity like walking, swimming, or chair exercises.
• Promote cognitive activities like reading, puzzles, or games.
• Encourage healthy eating habits with regular meals and hydration.
• Ensure seniors have regular medical check-ups to address any health concerns.

Provide practical assistance and support

• Offer assistance with meal planning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation.
• Use electronic medication reminders or alarms to ensure medication is taken correctly.
• Offer assistance with light housework, laundry, or transportation.
• Explore respite care services to provide a break for caregivers.

For more ideas and strategies on this important topic, visit one of many online resources that focus on aging at home, including this article from the National Institute on Aging, the aforementioned article that ran in the Tennessean, and this blog featuring advice for staying independent while aging at home provided by the Mayo Clinic.

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