Prepping Your Home for Holiday Guests with Mobility Needs
- Knoxville Aging in Place
- 17 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Welcoming aging parents or older relatives into your home for the holidays is a cherished tradition. But beyond the festive meals and family gatherings, it's important to ensure your space is safe, accessible, and comfortable for guests with mobility challenges. For many Knoxville families, this means thinking ahead and making strategic home adjustments that support independence and safety.
Whether your loved one uses a wheelchair, walker, or simply needs a little extra support, preparing your home with temporary accessibility solutions can go a long way in ensuring a stress-free, joyful holiday season.
Why Accessibility Matters During the Holidays
The holidays often involve a flurry of activity: decorating, cooking, house guests, and moving furniture to make room. But for seniors, especially those with mobility limitations, these changes can create hazards. A cluttered hallway, slippery bathroom floor, or steep front steps can quickly turn into fall risks or barriers to participation.
Taking steps to ensure your home is accessible helps:
Promote safety and reduce the risk of falls
Encourage independence so guests don’t have to ask for help every step of the way
Foster inclusion by ensuring everyone can participate fully in the holiday fun
Reduce stress for caregivers and hosts
Room-by-Room: Holiday Home Safety Checklist for Senior Guests
Here’s a senior home prep checklist to help you identify and address key risk areas before your guests arrive.
1. Entryways and Doorways
Ensure your entry path is well-lit and clear of debris
If there are steps, consider a temporary ramp rental (learn about our Ramp Rental Program)
Place a non-slip mat at the doorway to prevent tracking in snow or water
If needed, widen narrow doorways to allow wheelchair or walker access
2. Hallways and Pathways
Remove clutter, cords, and rugs that could pose tripping hazards
Add night lights or motion-sensor lights to improve visibility at night
Ensure hallways are at least 36 inches wide for safe navigation
3. Living Areas
Arrange furniture to allow plenty of room for movement
Add stable seating with armrests for ease of standing
Consider installing grab bars near frequently used chairs or steps
4. Bathrooms
Install non-slip mats in the shower and near the sink
Add grab bars near the toilet and shower (temporary options are available)
Use a raised toilet seat or shower chair for added comfort and safety
5. Bedrooms
Ensure the bed is an appropriate height for easy entry and exit
Clear walking paths to the bathroom and nightstand
Add a touch lamp or light switch near the bed
6. Stairs and Multi-Level Homes
If your guest room is on an upper floor, consider reassigning a ground floor space
For regular use, a stair lift may be worth exploring long-term (read about stair lift options)
Temporary Accessibility Solutions in Knoxville
You don’t have to commit to permanent modifications to make your home safer for the holidays. Knoxville Aging in Place offers a range of temporary solutions ideal for short-term stays or holiday visits.
Rent a Ramp for the Holidays
Our aluminum ramp rentals are:
Installed quickly (often same-day)
ADA-compliant and weather-resistant
Ideal for front steps, porches, and thresholds
Each rental begins with a Ramp Rental Assessment, where we evaluate your space and recommend the best configuration for your home and your guest’s needs.
Grab Bar Installation
We install antimicrobial vinyl-coated grab bars that are:
Rust-proof and ADA-rated
Soft and warm to the touch
Removable if needed
These are especially important for bathroom and stair safety during busy holiday gatherings.
In-Home Safety Assessments
Not sure where to begin? Book an Introductory Phone Consultation or an in-home assessment. Our experts can walk through your space and identify simple, affordable ways to improve safety and comfort.
Tips for Hosting Aging Parents or Loved Ones
Ask ahead: Talk to your loved one about any accessibility needs or past challenges in new environments.
Keep floors dry: Snow, rain, and spilled drinks can create fall hazards.
Designate a quiet space: Large gatherings can be overwhelming. Offer a room or corner where your guest can rest.
Simplify activities: Make sure holiday traditions are easy to participate in, with seating and lighting as needed.
A Safe, Joyful Holiday Starts at Home
Making your home safer for aging guests doesn’t require a full renovation. With a few smart updates and professional support, you can create a welcoming environment that prioritizes comfort, mobility, and inclusion.
Knoxville Aging in Place is here to help you prepare for the holidays with services like:
Ramp Rentals
Grab Bar Installation
Safety Assessments
Don’t wait until the last minute. If you’re expecting guests with mobility needs this season, let’s get started now! Book online.
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