Is It Still Safe for My Loved One to Live at Home?
They say they’re fine. They insist they’re managing. But something feels off—and now you’re asking the hard question: “Is it still safe for them to live at home?” You’re not alone. This is one of the toughest decisions families face. Here’s how to recognize the signs—and what to do before it becomes a crisis.
1. Have There Been Any Falls or Close Calls?
A single fall—even one they “don’t want to talk about”—can signal major safety issues:
Cluttered walkways
Poor lighting
Weakness or medication side effects
Lack of grab bars or support surfaces
Ask yourself: Would they be able to get help if they fell again?
2. Are Meals Getting Skipped or Mishandled?
Signs of nutritional decline often go unnoticed:
Spoiled food in the fridge
Weight loss
Empty cabinets
Repetitive takeout or “snacking” instead of meals
Aging in place safely means staying nourished—not just staying home.
3. How’s the Medication Management?
A common red flag:
Missed doses
Taking meds more than once
Confusion about which pill is which
If they’re managing five or more prescriptions, this needs a system—not sticky notes on the fridge.
4. What’s the Condition of the Home?
Changes in home maintenance can indicate cognitive or physical decline:
Stacks of unopened mail
Laundry piling up
Smells or spills
Neglected pets
It’s not about being picky. It’s about recognizing changes in ability.
5. Are They Still Social and Emotionally Engaged?
Isolation can be just as dangerous as a fall.
Have they stopped going out?
Are friends checking in?
Do they still enjoy things they used to love?
Loneliness isn’t just sad—it’s a health risk.
6. Is There a Backup Plan in Case of Emergency?
If you’re far away, or they’re alone most of the day—what happens if they need help right now? If that question makes you nervous, it might be time to bring in support.
What “Safe” Really Means
Aging in place isn’t about being completely independent. It’s about being supported—with the right tools, people, and systems to stay home safely and confidently.
Willow & Wells = Support That Keeps People Home—Safely
We don’t rush people into facilities. We help them thrive where they are—with coordinated care, home safety guidance, and a team that sees the full picture.
