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The holidays are a time for gathering, celebration, and connection. If you’re expecting elderly parents, grandparents, or other aging loved ones to visit, now’s the perfect time to make a few thoughtful adjustments to your home. Even minor changes can go a long way in making guests feel safer, more comfortable, and truly welcome.

At CarePro Home Medical and Kelly’s Home Medical, we help families across Eastern Iowa prepare their homes for every stage of life. Whether your loved ones are visiting for a few hours or staying overnight, here’s how to get ready, and how we can help.

Why Winter Safety Should Be a Priority This Season

Winter can be a challenging time for older adults. Slippery sidewalks, limited mobility, cold temperatures, and unfamiliar spaces can all increase the risk of falls or discomfort.

By making your home more senior-friendly, you’re not just being thoughtful; you’re helping prevent accidents and offering peace of mind to everyone involved. Even if your guest is relatively independent, aging naturally brings changes in balance, strength, and reaction time. Small steps now can help prevent big issues later.

Make Entrances Accessible

Before guests even step through the door, make sure getting into your home is safe and simple.

Tips for entryway prep:

• Clear snow, ice, and leaves from walkways.
• Add non-slip mats or runners inside and outside.
• Ensure entryway lighting is bright and motion-activated if possible.
• Install threshold ramps or portable access ramps if your guest uses a wheelchair or walker.
• Keep a sturdy chair or bench by the door so they can sit to remove boots or catch their breath.

CarePro and Kelly’s carry a variety of accessibility solutions. Stop in to find the right fit for your home.

Focus on Fall Prevention Inside

Once inside, it’s time to scan your home for hidden trip hazards. Cords, throw rugs, and cluttered walkways may not be an issue for you, but they could pose a serious risk to older adults.

Fall-proof your home by:

• Securing rugs with non-slip backing or removing them altogether.
• Tucking away cords and using cord covers near outlets.
• Rearranging furniture to create wider walking paths.
• Using fall alert monitors or standing poles near key areas.

Be sure to check out our Fall Prevention blog for more tips and product ideas.

Improve Bathroom Safety

The bathroom is one of the most important (and most dangerous) places to prep for elderly guests. Slippery surfaces, tight spaces, and low lighting can all contribute to falls.

Quick upgrades to improve bathroom safety:

• Grab bars near the toilet and in the tub or shower.
• Non-slip mats inside and outside the tub.
• A raised toilet seat for easier sitting and standing.
• A shower chair or transfer bench for added stability.
• A hand-held showerhead for easier bathing.

These products also make great practical gifts that show you care!

Add Mobility Support Where Needed

Whether your guest uses a cane, walker, rollator, or wheelchair, their comfort and safety will depend on how easily they can move around your home.

To improve mobility throughout the house:

• Clear pathways of furniture or decorative items.
• Consider borrowing or renting a rollator or wheelchair for the visit.
• Add walker trays, glide tips, or portable grab handles for extra convenience.

If you’re unsure what your loved one uses, or what they might need, stop in and talk with our team. We’re happy to help guide you.

Stop By a CarePro or Kelly’s Store

Create a Comfortable Guest Space

Making your guest feel welcome is not just about safety, but comfort and dignity, too.

Tips to create a cozy and accessible guest room:

• Provide extra pillows for back support.
• Use a bed rail or adjustable bed wedge if they struggle with getting in and out of bed.
• Keep a lamp and water within arm’s reach.
• Place a nightlight in the hallway and bathroom.
• If stairs are a challenge, offer a main-floor sleeping area.

Lift chairs can help your guest rest and rise more comfortably, and they’re also a fantastic gift idea!

Practical Gifts That Show You Care

If you’re gift shopping this season, why not choose something that makes life easier for your loved ones?

Holiday gift ideas available at CarePro and Kelly’s:

• Cozy, medical-grade compression socks.
• Stylish canes or walker accessories.
• Large-button phones or pill organizers.
• Reachers or grab tools for independence.
• Omni massage rollers, elastic shoelaces, safety alerts, and more.

Gifting safety and comfort can be meaningful and appreciated more than you might think. Plus, it opens the door for important conversations.

Talk About Long-Term Needs

Having aging parents or relatives in your home can spark bigger discussions. Maybe they struggled more than expected with steps or needed help in the bathroom. These moments can help you and your family start a conversation about aging in place and what support may be needed going forward.

Read our blog on How to Talk to Your Parents About Aging in Place for guidance and conversation starters.

Stop In for Help Locally

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Our team at CarePro Home Medical and Kelly’s Home Medical is here to help you prepare, shop, and find the right products for your home and your guests.

Find Your Nearest CarePro or Kelly’s Location

A Home Full of Comfort and Joy

With just a few simple updates, your home can be safer, more accessible, and more welcoming for guests of every age. Whether you’re prepping for a quick visit or hosting overnight guests, CarePro Home Medical and Kelly’s Home Medical are your trusted, local partners in making the holidays joyful, and safe, for everyone.

Stop in today or explore our products online to get ready for the season.

Check Out a Sampling of Our Products Online