Small changes prevent most accidents
You do not need a renovation to make a home meaningfully safer. Many of the most effective improvements are simple, inexpensive, and can be done in an afternoon.
Lighting
Good lighting prevents more problems than almost any other change. Add bright, low-glare lighting to stairs, hallways, and entrances. Put nightlights along the path to the bathroom. Make sure switches are easy to reach from the bed and at the top and bottom of every staircase.
Rugs and flooring
Loose rugs are among the most common causes of falls. Remove rugs that slide or curl, or secure them with non-slip backing and tape. Check that carpet edges are flat and that hard flooring is not slippery.
Walkways and clutter
Keep pathways completely clear. Coil or reroute electrical cords so they do not cross walkways. Move furniture that narrows passages, especially the route to the bathroom at night.
Handrails and grab bars
Secure any loose handrails on stairs and exterior steps, and add a rail on the second side where possible. In the bathroom, add grab bars where someone actually steadies themselves, not just where they look right.
Detectors
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and replace batteries on a schedule. A working detector is one of the cheapest safety improvements available.
Easy hardware changes
Replace round door knobs with lever handles, which are easier to operate. Check that locks are easy to use from inside and out. These small changes add up to a home that is easier and safer to live in.