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Holiday lights should lift our spirits, not raise our blood pressure. We take a calm, practical tour of the most common hazards that creep into homes this season and show how a few smart choices can protect older adults without dimming the magic. Drawing on years as an occupational therapist and aging-in-place specialist, Esther explains why old incandescent strands run hot, how cords under rugs hide both fires and falls, and what really happens inside the wall when a single outlet powers the entire winter wonderland.

We break down simple upgrades that pay off immediately: replace brittle light strings with cool, efficient LED lights; route cords along walls with low-profile covers; and skip cheap adapters in favor of UL listed surge-protecting power strips. Then we go further with automation. Timers shut everything down at the same hour every night, smart plugs make remote control effortless, and voice activation removes bending, reaching, and guesswork for anyone with mobility or memory changes. That shift from “remember to unplug” to “it turns off by itself” delivers real peace of mind.

Placement is the quiet hero. Decorations should sit well away from curtains, paper crafts, and heating vents, and off the floor where walkers and pets roam. We talk through how walking paths widen with canes and walkers, why “out of the way” last year might be in the way now, and how a quick room walk-through prevents bumps and tip-overs. We also cover tree safety: choosing a fire-resistant artificial tree or keeping a real tree well-watered so dry needles don’t meet warm lights. The result is a home that shines bright, stays cool, and supports independence.

If these tips help you breathe easier, share the episode with someone who could use a gentle safety nudge. Subscribe to the show and our YouTube channel for daily guidance on aging in place, and leave a review to help more families find practical, calm support for a safer, happier holiday season.

For more information about aging in place and caregiving for older adults, visit our website at SeniorSafetyAdvice.com