The typical home may be surprisingly difficult for a senior to navigate. Simple things like rugs become tripping hazards, and even cozy pieces of furniture might be a challenge. Whether your elderly loved one is healthy or living with a chronic condition, these changes may help you make your home a more welcoming place.
Increase the Lighting
As people age, it becomes more challenging for them to see details in dim light. If you want to help your loved one see more clearly, try to make sure all areas of the home are brightly lit. You may change out the bulbs in light fixtures, but it’s also important to remember places light fixtures don’t reach. You might want to install some lamps in dark corners. It may also be helpful to add motion-activated lights in the bedroom, hallway, and bathroom so your loved one has some light when getting up to go to the bathroom during the night.
Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional in-home care seniors may trust and rely on.
Clear Away Clutter on the Floor
Many seniors have balance issues, and even a minor fall may lead to major broken bones. To prevent accidents, it’s essential to remove all tripping hazards. Anything that sticks out slightly, such as electrical cords or rugs, should be removed. It’s also a good idea to rearrange furniture so your loved one doesn’t have to carefully maneuver around tight corners or over low ottomans when walking. You’ll also need to remember to clean up regularly so items such as shoes or toys don’t cause issues.
Use Adaptive Doorknobs, Handles, & Other Fixtures
Many fixtures around the home might be difficult for seniors with limited mobility to use. When possible, try to replace doorknobs and cabinet handles with elderly-friendly fixtures. Things like levers and large handles that may be pushed with a broad hand gesture are easier to use. You might also want to add some technology like voice-activated appliances and thermostats.
In the golden years, it’s easier to maintain a high quality of life in a senior-friendly home. If your aging loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of Northern Kentucky home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Incorporate Reminders around the Home
If your loved one has memory loss, you may adjust your home to help. Add timers to automatically shut off the stove, oven, and lights after a set amount of time. You might also want to install automatic door locks or other safety measures. It may also be helpful to add notes to cabinet doors to help your loved one quickly see where his or her belongings are.
Make the Bathroom Safer
The bathroom is one of the main hazardous areas for elderly individuals because it involves a lot of slippery surfaces and challenging motions. Make sure to avoid using any bathroom rugs that could slide around, and install anti-slip mats on the floor and in the bottom of the tub or shower. If possible, install a grab bar to make it safer to use the toilet. Another great option is a raised toilet seat that makes it easier to sit down and stand up from the toilet.
Even when living in senior-friendly homes, older adults often still need assistance with everyday tasks. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Northern Kentucky senior care experts from Assisting Hands Home Care are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call Assisting Hands of Northern Kentucky at (859) 328-2656 today.
