Making the Kitchen Safer for Older Adults

The kitchen can be one of the most hazardous areas in any home, but for those 65 and older, the risks increase significantly. Age-related changes can affect mobility, coordination, and the senses, while cognitive challenges—such as memory loss or dementia—can further heighten the danger. With multiple electrical and gas appliances in use, fire safety is a major concern. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), individuals over 65 are 2.5 times more likely to die in a kitchen fire compared to the general population.

For seniors on fixed incomes, the cost of home modifications may feel out of reach.

However, making necessary adaptations is essential for maintaining independence and safety. Family members and caregivers can play a crucial role in implementing these changes and reinforcing precautions to prevent accidents or respond to emergencies.

Use the checklist below to identify potential hazards and ensure the kitchen remains a safe and functional space.

Here are 40+ Essential Kitchen Safety Tips for Seniors:

LIGHTING:

Proper lighting is essential in the kitchen, especially for older adults. Ensure that key areas such as the stove, sink, and countertops are well-lit to prevent accidents.

• Consider installing battery-operated LED strip lights or stick-on lights to brighten workspaces without complicated wiring.

• For added safety during nighttime navigation, use night lights or motion-activated lighting to illuminate pathways automatically.

• Avoid shiny or highly reflective work surfaces, as they can create glare and reduce visibility.

• Lastly, install light switches at every kitchen entrance to ensure easy access to lighting, reducing the risk of falls or mishaps in dim conditions.

APPLIANCES:

A clutter-free kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety and efficiency, especially for seniors. Follow these essential tips to minimize hazards and maximize usability in your cooking space:

• Reduce Unnecessary Appliances – Keep only the essentials on your countertops to create a clear, accessible workspace and prevent accidental spills or electrical hazards.

• Unplug When Not in Use – Get into the habit of unplugging small appliances (like toasters, coffee makers, and blenders) when they’re not in use. Not only does this reduce fire risk, but it also helps conserve energy.

• Keep Appliances Away from Water – Position countertop appliances away from the sink to prevent electrical shock. If possible, use GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets for added protection.

• Check Your Range Exhaust Vent – Ensure the stove’s exhaust vent discharges outside to prevent a buildup of smoke, grease, and harmful fumes inside the home. Proper ventilation improves air quality and fire safety.

• Upgrade Gas Range Safety Features – If you have a gas range, it should include a pilot light and an automatic shut-off feature to prevent gas leaks and potential fire hazards.

• Ensure Easy-to-Use Oven Controls – Choose an oven/range with clearly labeled controls that are:

COUNTERS, CABINETS AND WORK AREAS:

An efficient kitchen isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, accessibility, and ease of use, especially for seniors aging in place. Follow these simple but effective tips to keep your kitchen safe and functional:

• Keep Cabinets & Drawers Closed – Always close cabinets and drawers when not in use to prevent trips, bumps, and bruises from sharp edges or unexpected obstacles.

• Maximize Counter Space for Everyday Items – Designate clear, accessible counter space for frequently used kitchen essentials (coffee maker, toaster, favorite spices) while removing unnecessary clutter. A clean workspace reduces accidents and stress while cooking.

• Upgrade to a Lever-Handled Faucet – Swap out traditional knobs for lever-handled faucets, which are easier to operate for seniors with arthritis or limited dexterity. Touchless or motion-activated faucets are another great option!

• Make Storage More Accessible –    

  • Frequently used items (dishes, cookware, seasonings) should be stored at waist or shoulder height—no bending, no reaching.    

  • Install pull-down shelving for overhead cabinets to bring items within reach effortlessly.    

  • Consider pull-out drawers for deep cabinets to avoid straining to retrieve items from the back.

    
    

A well-organized kitchen isn’t just about efficiency—it reduces fall risks, prevents injuries, and makes cooking an enjoyable experience for everyone!

COOKING AND FOOD PREPARATION:

• Keep knives and other sharp objects properly stored; use knives that come with plastic safety sleeves;

• Keep handles on pots and pans turned away from the edge of the range and other burners;

• Keep hot pad and pot holders near the stove;

• Don’t wear clothes that are very loose fitting or have long, loose sleeves;

• NEVER try to relight the pilot light on a gas stove; call for assistance from a friend or family member or gas provider;

• Use large print cookbooks, recipes and measuring tools;

• Use plastic instead of glass where practical to avoid breakage and injury;

• Use a pizza cutter to more easily cut up a variety of foods like pancakes, meats, fruit and casseroles;

• Use a rubber band around the lid of a jar to help open it more easily;

• Find recipes for one pot meals to reduce cleanup; cook once, eat twice using leftovers for next day;

• Replace one-handle pots with pots that have two handles;

• Never leave cooking food unattended; if you need to step away, turn off the stove;

FIRES AND EMERGENCIES:

• Update escape plans with current capabilities in mind and practice them;

• Keep hallways and stairs uncluttered;

• Make sure there are two ways out of each room, including kitchen;

• Place a land line telephone beside the bed, as well as a second set of slippers, house keys, eyeglasses, and a flashlight that stay there all the time;

• Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, but advise seniors to leave the house immediately if the smoke alarm sounds and call “911” from a neighbor’s home;

• Arrange for nearby neighbors to be prepared as an emergency go-to resource;

• Replace wax candles with battery operated LED ones;

• Post emergency numbers on the fridge, including Poison Control (1-800-222-1222);

• Check smoke detectors monthly; Seniors who are deaf or hard of hearing should consider purchasing flashing or vibrating smoke alarms;

MISCELLANEOUS:

• Disconnect the garbage disposal;

• Install non-slip, anti-glare flooring;

• Always wipe up spills quickly and ensure surfaces have been cleaned properly;

• Eliminate any drawers or cabinets used to collect junk;

• Store flammable liquids outside;

A Safer Kitchen Means More Confidence & Independence

By making these small but effective changes, seniors can continue cooking with confidence and ease. A safe and organized kitchen reduces risks and allows for a more enjoyable cooking experience.

Looking for more home safety solutions? We’re here to help!

📅 Join our CAPS training today: HouseholdGuardians.com/caps-training

Fritzi Gros-Daillon MS, CSA, CAPS, UDCP, SHSS

Household Guardians, Owner

2019 NAHB Instructor of the Year

Published author of "Grace and Grit: Insights to Real Life Challenges of Aging"