It’s always a good idea to take stock of things every so often. This certainly includes how your home ranks in terms of safety and comfort.

You may or may not be noticing changes in your eyesight, caused by aging and progressive disease. Taking a good look around, periodically, can prevent an annoyance from becoming a hazard.   

Take someone with you for a studious stroll around your environment. An extra pair of good eyes can be quite discerning.

Here are some things to consider as you assess your home.

• Are you having any new problems navigating around your home space? Any old problems still posing threats to your safety?

• Is there anything impeding your pathways? Extraneous furniture? Unsecured rugs? Clutter?

• Are the rooms in your home well illuminated? Is there enough available light (day and night) for you to enter a room and get around it with ease?

• Do you have good task lighting for a specific activity? Reading in your favorite chair? Writing at your desk? Gooseneck lamps allow you to move the light closer to the object, which can be very helpful to reading, writing, and handiwork.

• Are you experiencing glare in any area? It may help to adjust window coverings during daylight hours.  Repositioning lamps may resolve issues with glare and shadows.

• Is there enough light in your halls and stairways? If you feel light is not adequate in any area of your home try changing the bulbs wattage and color. 

• Do you feel confident going up and down your steps? Consider highlighting the edge of each step with a contrasting trim color or texture, to improve clarity.   

• Address the safety issues you identify — and ensure your well being at home. 

*Article edited by Dorrie Rush*