Home safety products
What to look for in the products families ask about most. We explain what matters first. Links to buy come after.
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Medical alert systems
A button worn on the wrist or neck that calls for help.
What to look for
- Automatic fall detection, so help comes even if your parent can't press the button.
- A home unit if they rarely go out, or a mobile unit with GPS if they drive or walk on their own.
- Month-to-month pricing with no long contract or cancellation fee.
- A 24/7 monitoring center that can see your parent's address and medical notes.
Partner link goes here: a recommended medical alert systems option. It will use rel="sponsored nofollow".
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Grab bars and bathroom safety
The bathroom is where many falls happen at home.
What to look for
- Bars screwed into wall studs and rated for at least 250 pounds. Skip suction-cup bars for support.
- A bar by the toilet and one inside the shower or tub.
- A shower chair or tub transfer bench, and a handheld shower head.
Partner link goes here: a recommended grab bars and bathroom safety option. It will use rel="sponsored nofollow".
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Stair lifts
A powered seat that rides along the staircase.
What to look for
- Get at least two in-home quotes. Curved stairs cost much more than straight ones.
- Battery backup so it works during a power outage.
- Ask about the warranty, service calls, and whether it can be removed if your parent moves.
- Check whether moving a bedroom to the first floor would cost less.
Partner link goes here: a recommended stair lifts option. It will use rel="sponsored nofollow".
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Pill organizers and dispensers
Help taking the right pills at the right time.
What to look for
- A simple weekly organizer works well if your parent fills it with help.
- Automatic dispensers lock pills away and open at set times, with alarms.
- Some send a text or app alert to family if a dose is missed.
Partner link goes here: a recommended pill organizers and dispensers option. It will use rel="sponsored nofollow".
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Medicare usually doesn't pay for these items. Some Medicare Advantage plans, Medicaid's MI Choice program, and VA benefits may help. See Health and safety at home.