Essential Items for Caring for an Ageing Parent at Home

Starting to care for an ageing parent at home can feel overwhelming, partly because it’s not always clear what’s actually needed versus optional. This is a practical starting list, organized by area of daily life.

Bathroom Essentials

• Grab bars near the toilet and in the shower/bathing area
• Non-slip mats inside and just outside the shower
• Shower chair or stool, and a raised toilet seat if needed

Bedroom Essentials

• Bed at a comfortable, appropriate height
• Bed rail if extra support getting in and out is needed
• A light reachable from bed without getting up

Mobility Essentials

• A correctly fitted walking stick, walker or wheelchair, as appropriate
• A reacher for dropped or high-up items

Medication and Health Management

• A pill organizer or clear medication schedule
• A written list of medications, doctors and emergency contacts, kept somewhere accessible

Communication and Emergency

• A simple way to call for help (phone kept in reach, call bell, or alert device)
• Emergency numbers clearly visible, not only saved on a phone

Daily Living Support

• Dressing aids if fine motor tasks have become difficult — see our dressing aids guide
• Easy-grip kitchen tools if they’re still cooking independently

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all of these need to be bought immediately?
No — starting with bathroom safety and whatever mobility aid is currently needed, then adding the rest gradually, is a reasonable approach for most families.

How do priorities change over time?
Needs tend to shift gradually, so it’s worth revisiting this list periodically rather than assuming the initial setup will stay sufficient indefinitely.

See our home safety checklist for caregivers for a broader walkthrough.