The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and cherished traditions. It’s a period when families come together, friends reconnect, and memories are made. But amidst the festive cheer, it’s crucial for our senior community to stay safe and sound.

At The GrayVine, we understand the importance of enjoying the holidays without compromising on safety. Here are some essential tips to ensure your golden years are not only merry and bright but also secure.

1. Deck the Halls with Safety in Mind​

While decking the halls with boughs of holly, remember that less is more. Excessive floor decorations can turn into obstacles, increasing the risk of trips and falls. Dr. Cornett of Nebraska Medicine highlights that falls are more common during the holidays.

So, keep the floor clear and place decorations on shelves or mantels. When hosting, ensure walkways are free from gifts, shoes, and other clutter.

2. Extension Cord Caution​

The twinkling lights of the season are magical, but they often require extension cords, which can be a tripping hazard.

To keep your home safe for everyone, secure extension cords against walls or, better yet, elevate them off the ground. It might require a bit of ingenuity, but your efforts will create a safer space for all your holiday guests.

3. The Glow Without the Flame​

Candles add a cozy ambiance to holiday gatherings, but open flames pose a risk, especially if you forget to extinguish them.

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that candle fires peak during the holiday season. Opt for battery-powered candles to maintain the festive glow without the danger. These flameless wonders are so lifelike that you’ll hardly notice the difference!

4. Light Up the Night (and Day)​

Good lighting is a simple yet effective way to prevent falls. Ensure your home is well-lit, including walkways, stairwells, and bathrooms. For those living in snowy regions, outdoor lighting is equally important to illuminate icy patches.

5. Decorate with Your Feet on the Ground​

Holiday decorating often involves ladders and step-stools, but these can be precarious. Keep decorations within arm’s reach or ask for assistance from younger family members or neighbors. Safety should always take precedence over aesthetics.

6. Furniture Feng Shui for Freedom of Movement​

Hosting holiday gatherings often means rearranging furniture to accommodate guests. Ensure there’s ample space for everyone to move around by placing furniture along the room’s perimeter. This thoughtful arrangement minimizes the risk of bumps and falls.

7. Ensure Rug Safety​

Rugs add warmth and style to a home, but they can be a slipping hazard. Secure rugs with non-slip pads or consider removing them during the holidays. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of falls and make your home more navigable for everyone.

8. Create a Kid- and Pet-Free Zone​

The laughter of children and the joy of pets are integral to holiday festivities, but they can also contribute to a chaotic environment.

Designate areas for younger family members and pets to play, keeping them clear of high-traffic zones. This allows for safer and more enjoyable interactions between seniors and their beloved young relatives and furry friends.


The holidays are a time to focus on connection and celebration, not worry about potential hazards. By following these eight tips, you can fully embrace the holiday spirit while maintaining your well-being.


At The GrayVine, we’re all about sharing tips and advice to make life better. Got a favorite holiday tradition, a safety tip, or a heartwarming story to share? Let’s inspire each other and make this holiday season the best one yet!