The holiday season is an opportunity for families to enjoy time together. Being the host for your family's festivities is a time consuming process. Along with the preparation that comes with hosting such an event, thought should also be given to preparing your home for your aging parents or older relatives. It is common for older adults to have unique needs including physical limitations or cognitive losses, putting them at risk for falls. Making some simple adjustments to your home and routine can make the holiday season more safe, comfortable and enjoyable for all. Review your relative's routines prior to the visit. Ask them if they have any special needs. Do they use a walker, go to the bathroom at night, need assistance with bathing or require a particular diet? The answers will guide your planning. Make every attempt to maintain their regular schedule of meals and sleep. The stress of travel can easily aggravate chronic health conditions. You may have to rent equipment or rearrange the house to meet their special needs. Below are suggestions for making your home safe and secure for your older relatives over the holidays/ visits: Obtain information about preferred routines for meals, medications, sleep, etc. Make every attempt to help maintain their regular schedule it will make for a more enjoyable stay. Try to provide a bedroom on the lower level, ideally with easy access to the bathroom. Provide space in the bathroom for medications, personal care items, etc. Ensure safe accessibility by installing handrails, removing snow and ice, rearranging furniture to create safe pathways and removing throw rugs. Ensure adequate lighting, including night-lights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms. Consider renting a tub bench for bathing and apply non-skid trips in the tub. Consider a commode in a discreet location, if the bathroom is inaccessible. Keep a list of emergency numbers next to the phones, including the number of your parent's regular physician. Provide adequate heat but avoid space heaters if possible. Make sure your guest know where things are in the kitchen and they feel comfortable helping themselves. Many older people are accustomed to eating small portions more times each day. Information obtained from AgeNet.com