As we age, more of us are taking steps to make our homes elder-friendly. By making just a few minor adjustments or modifications, you can provide support and security for elderly loved ones while making your home more suitable for frail care. By following these tips shared by a contributor, you will create an environment which is safe and comfortable for both you and your elderly loved ones.
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Install Grab Bars
Grab bars are an essential addition for any home that accommodates elderly residents, providing extra stability and support when transitioning in and out of bath tubs, toilets and other areas. For more bathroom safety tips click on this link.
Bring All Changes Needed for Wheelchair Access into Account
If your loved one requires wheelchair use or needs a walker, ensuring there is ample space within the home will help them navigate easily and comfortably. This may mean moving furniture out of the way, widening doorways and hallways, adding ramps at thresholds, or installing stairlifts if required.
Reorganize Storage Areas
To reduce risk of falls or accidents when reaching up or bending down for items, consider restructuring your storage areas. Move commonly-used items like kitchen utensils and cleaning supplies onto lower shelves or cabinets so they’re easier to access, while making sure all drawers and cabinets have handles installed for more convenient usage.
Install Additional Lighting
Poor lighting can be dangerous for elderly residents of your home, so ensure it is well lit at all times. Consider adding lamps and night-lights throughout the house as well as motion-sensitive outdoor lighting so those needing to leave before dark can do so safely.
Purchase a Medical Alert System Now
Medical alert systems provide a straightforward way of providing assistance should an emergency arise, with many offering 24/7 monitoring and support services, fall detection, GPS tracking capabilities and other features such as fall protection and GPS tracking capabilities.
Make Essential Safety Modifications Today
If your home contains a pool, hot tub or pond, make sure they are properly secured and gated to prevent accidental access. Check for loose wires or cords which might present a trip hazard and install suitable railings as necessary in stairwells and other areas.
Simplify Your Home
To make life simpler, consider decluttering and simplifying your home as much as possible. Keep items you use regularly close at hand for quick access; remove unnecessary furniture and decorations for an open space free from clutter.
Be Dedicated to Maintenance
Maintenance is key for creating a safe home environment. Make sure that smoke detectors, HVAC, and flooring systems are always running optimally, and inspect for loose or damaged areas on floors, carpets and rugs regularly.
Make Use of Technology
Technology can be an invaluable aid to elderly individuals in providing convenience and security. Devices like remote-controlled door locks, voice assistants, video doorbells and smart home systems all help make life simpler while adding extra monitoring capabilities.
Securing Regular Medication
Ensuring that your elderly relative takes their medication at the proper times and in the correct amounts is of utmost importance. Consider investing in a pill organizer or automated pill dispenser to simplify their management, and set reminders on computers and smartphones so they take their dose at exactly the appropriate times.
Adopting these tips will enable you to ensure the wellbeing of an elderly loved one while creating a more accommodating home environment for both yourself and them. With just a few minor modifications, you can create an inclusive space where both can feel secure.