To improve lighting and visibility

• place light switches close to room entrances
• install light switches at the top and bottom of stairs.
• install lighted switch plates
• use high-watt light bulbs in stairways and other hazardous areas
• provide sufficient, even lighting throughout the home
• install additional lighting, if necessary
• install a voice or sound activated adapter to turn on lights and appliances
• install under-the-cabinet lights in the kitchen
• place a night light in the path between the bedroom and bathroom
• install cordless battery-operated lights inside closets and cabinets
• install motion-sensitive exterior lighting
• use bright colours
• use contrasting colours

To enhance safety and support

• remove loose rugs
• secure mats with non-skid backing or double-sided carpet tape
• secure telephone and electrical cords
• install non-slip flooring, especially in kitchens and bathrooms
• use non-skid mats or adhesive strips in bathtubs
• remove thresholds
• rearrange furniture to move it out of paths and walkways
• place barriers at dangerous locations
• edge stairs with bright non-skid tape to highlight changes in floor levels
• install rubber treads on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stairs
• install handrails and grab bars, particularly in stairways and bathrooms
• clamp adjustable safety rail onto edge of bathtub
• install anti-scald devices on faucets and shower heads
• install smoke detectors near kitchens and bedrooms
• install plug-in carbon monoxide detectors
• install a portable security intercom
• install an emergency response system

To improve accessibility, ease of use and convenience

• install a wheelchair ramp
• arrange furniture to leave wide corridors for wheelchairs or walkers
• ensure chairs have arms and seats that are high enough to allow for easy sitting down/getting up
• widen doorways by removing mouldings and replacing hinges
• install revolving shelves
• convert a ground-floor room into a bedroom
• install a bed rail and/or handrails
• install a commode (portable toilet) in the bedroom
• Lower closet shelving and cabinets
• Install slide-out shelving, adjustable rods, baskets and other closet organizers
• Replace round doorknobs with lever handles
• Attach lever adapters to round doorknobs
• Install lever-handle faucets in kitchens and bathrooms
• Replace fixed shower heads with flexible hand-held shower heads
• Install a raised toilet seat
• Install a shower or tub chair
• Install crank-operated windows
• Buy clocks with large numerals
• Buy telephones with large buttons