Creating a Safe Home for Seniors with Low Vision

By Emma Pizzuti

Living with low vision can make daily tasks more difficult and increase the risk of accidents at home. For seniors, thoughtful home adjustments and access to local resources can help maintain independence, safety, and confidence. Whether you're a caregiver or a senior living with vision loss, these changes can make a meaningful difference.

Lighting and Visibility

Good lighting is one of the most important ways to create a safe home for someone with low vision. Bright, even lighting in hallways, staircases, kitchens, and bathrooms helps prevent falls and makes it easier to navigate the home. Adding motion-sensor nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms ensures visibility during nighttime trips. Make sure windows are unobstructed during the day to maximize natural light, and consider switching to LED bulbs for better brightness.

Contrast and Color

Using contrasting colors around the home can help highlight important features. For example, placing dark rugs on light floors or using colorful tape on stair edges can increase depth perception and orientation. Choosing dishes, placemats, and furniture in different, vivid colors makes them easier to identify. Even small additions—like outlining light switches or remote controls with bright stickers—can improve visibility.

Decluttering and Pathway Safety

Clear, wide walkways make movement safer and more manageable. Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs, exposed cords, or low furniture. Keep items in consistent places so that seniors can find what they need easily. Rearranging furniture to reduce obstacles and provide clear navigation paths can greatly increase confidence when moving around.

Home ModificationsInstall grab bars near toilets and in showers for additional stability. Use non-slip mats both inside and outside the bathtub. Organize kitchen tools and label them using large print or tactile stickers. Store frequently used items within easy reach to reduce strain and confusion. Appliances with large, high-contrast buttons or audio cues can help make cooking and other tasks more accessible.

Helpful Tools and Technology

There are many low-vision aids that can make a home more accessible. Talking clocks, large-button phones, magnifying glasses, and audio reading devices are excellent tools. Voice-activated home assistants like Alexa or Google Home can help set reminders, control lights, and even read the news—all hands-free. Smartphones and tablets can also be equipped with accessibility apps that read text aloud, increase contrast, or magnify screen content.

Local Resources in NYC for Seniors with Vision Loss

New York City offers several agencies to help seniors adapt their homes and daily routines to low vision.

VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

VISIONS offers free in-home training, vision rehabilitation, and technology instruction for New Yorkers who are blind or visually impaired. They also provide support for caregivers and family members. Learn more at visionsvcb.org or call (888) 245-8333.

New York State Commission for the Blind (NYSCB)

This state agency provides vocational and independent living services, including orientation and mobility training, home adaptations, and assistive technology. Seniors can apply for services by calling (866) 871-3000 or visiting ocfs.ny.gov/programs/nyscb.

Lighthouse Guild

Lighthouse Guild is a leading nonprofit organization in New York City dedicated to supporting people with vision impairment. They offer comprehensive services, including low vision evaluations, technology training, mental health counseling, and vision rehabilitation.

Visit lighthouseguild.org or call (800) 284-4422 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Creating a safe and comfortable home for seniors with low vision is all about thoughtful planning and consistent routines. With the right modifications and support, seniors can continue to thrive in their homes and communities.