Growing up, my parents had us shovel the driveway after every snowfall, because waiting until it piled up just made the job harder. These days, the roles have reversed. I’m the one reminding them that physiotherapy works the same way – a little consistency every day makes all the difference.
Simply put, I’m a huge advocate for physiotherapy for seniors. Not just in the clinic, but at home too. Because that’s where real progress happens. Where we live, move, and face the everyday challenges that physiotherapy can support. But many homes aren’t designed with safe movement or exercise in mind.
The good news is that a few simple tweaks can make a big difference. With the right setup, your parents can keep up with physiotherapy safely and confidently. In fact, home adaptations are becoming increasingly common across Canada. As of July 2025, Statistics Canada reports them as the most widely used support service – utilized by 25% of seniors aged 65–79 and by 51.9% of those aged 80 and older.
That said, here are some tips for creating a home that supports both safety and steady progress:
1. Clear the Pathways (Like Your Driveway)
Think of clutter like snow on the driveway – the longer it sits, the harder it is to deal with. Cords, side tables, and slippery rugs might seem harmless, but they’re often behind the little stumbles that cause big problems.
A clear path makes all the difference for walking practice, balance work, and just getting around safely. Try to create wide “therapy lanes” where your parents can move freely, providing enough space for a walker, a stretcher, or to practice a few steps.
In one observational study, therapists did a single home visit to assess fall risk, remove environmental hazards, and prescribe exercises. Over the course of a year, fall rates decreased by nearly 24%.
2. Lighting Matters (More Than You Think)
Poor lighting can turn even the safest setup into a guessing game. Shadows on stairs or dim hallways can throw off balance or make your parents hesitate mid-step. And that hesitation can lead to a fall. Swap in brighter bulbs, add night lights, or install motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms. A well-lit space gives seniors confidence, and it helps physiotherapists spot and correct movement safely.
It’s like clearing fog off a windshield. Once the path is visible, everything feels steadier.
3. Choose the Right Chair (Not Just For Sitting)
A chair isn’t just for sitting. It’s one of the commonly used pieces of ‘‘equipment” during in-home physiotherapy sessions. From sit-to-stand practice to posture and leg-strengthening exercises, a sturdy chair is essential. Pick one with armrests, no wheels, and a firm seat (think dining chair, not office chair or couch, and definitely not a lazy boy chair ;). The right height makes it easier on the knees and safer for balance.
If it feels solid when you sit and stand, it’s probably safe for your parents too.
4. Small Additions Equal Big Impact (Safety First)
Although home safety assessments have been shown to reduce fall risk by up to 36% and decrease serious injuries such as hip fractures, their adoption remains low.
A few small upgrades can make a world of difference. Grab bars in the bathroom, non-slip mats underfoot, or a properly fitted walker can turn tricky moments into confident ones. But don’t buy everything at once. Ask a physiotherapist to suggest what’s really useful. A good setup is personal, not one-size-fits-all.
5. It’s A Group Effort (Including Family and Professionals)
Progress doesn’t happen in isolation. Family encouragement, daily check-ins, and a supportive space can help seniors stick to their exercises (and actually enjoy them).
That’s also where we come in. Our team brings physiotherapy right into your home, but we also help you make the home itself safer and more supportive for your parent’s goals.
Remember, a safe home isn’t just about preventing falls. It’s about creating a space for your loved ones to confidently move, exercise, and recover. Even small changes can have a big impact. Like my parents and the driveway – a little work every day keeps things clear, safe, and moving forward.