As people get older, they may find it harder to live on their own. This is why it’s important to make your house senior-friendly. By following the eight expert tips listed below, you can make your home more comfortable and accessible for elderly loved ones. Keep reading to learn more.
Make the floors accessible
One of the primary things you can do to make your home senior-friendly is to make the floors more accessible. This means installing handrails on all staircases and ensuring that there is no carpeting or throw rugs that could cause someone to trip and fall. In this case, you can even consider investing in a stair lift that will help your loved one get up and down the stairs more easily. Just keep in mind that these devices need to be properly installed and maintained to ensure safety.
Widen doorways and hallways
Another way to make your home more senior-friendly is to widen doorways and hallways. This will make it easier for people who use canes or walkers to get around. You may also want to install grab bars by the bed to help your loved one get in and out of these areas more easily. However, you should not stop there, but rather make sure that there are no other potential hazards in these areas that could cause your loved one to trip and fall.
Additionally, installing easy-to-use door locks is another great way to make your home more senior-friendly. This is especially important if your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, as it will help to prevent them from wandering off and getting lost. There are a variety of different types of door locks on the market, so be sure to do your research to find the best option for your home.
Install grab bars in the bathroom
Another important tip is to install grab bars in the bathroom. This will help your loved one avoid falls when getting in and out of the tub or using the toilet. You should also make sure that there is a nonslip mat in the tub or shower. These are simple solutions that can make a big difference in safety, particularly when they are using the bathroom.
In addition to this, you can also place frequently used items in the bathroom within reach. This includes things like any medication that your loved one takes regularly. You may also want to invest in a raised toilet seat to make it easier for them to use the bathroom. Moreover, you can also install a phone in the bathroom that they can use in case of an emergency.
Focus on the kitchen as well
Another area of the house that you’ll want to focus on is the kitchen. This is because the kitchen can be a dangerous place for seniors, especially if they are dealing with vision or mobility issues. To make the kitchen more senior-friendly, you should clear out clutter, install bright lighting, and use appliances that are easy to operate. You may also want to consider installing a stove guard to prevent accidents. For example, you can get a stove guard that will automatically turn the burner off if it senses that something is getting too close to it.
Provide adequate lighting
Another important thing that you can do is to provide adequate lighting throughout the house. This will help your loved one see better and avoid tripping over things that are hard to see in low light. You can install motion sensor lights in hallways and other areas where your loved one tends to walk at night. There is also the option for you to install specialty light bulbs that provide more light without being too harsh on the eyes.
In choosing the right type of lighting, you should also consider the type of bulbs that you use. For example, LED bulbs are a good option because they provide more light than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last longer as well. Just keep in mind that LED bulbs can be more expensive up front, but they will save you money in the long run. Rest assured that the proper type of lighting can make a big difference in the safety of your home.
Keep the home clean and clutter-free
It’s also important to keep the home clean and clutter-free. This will help your loved one move around more easily and avoid falls. Be sure to declutter regularly and put away any items that are not being used. You should also consider hiring a professional cleaning service to help with the upkeep of your home. This means that your loved one won’t have to worry about keeping the house clean and can focus on other things. However, you need to remember that even if you have someone cleaning the house, it’s still important to declutter regularly.
Invest in home automation
Home automation is another great way to make your house senior-friendly. Several products on the market can help with things like turning lights on and off, opening and closing doors, and even controlling the thermostat. For instance, if your loved one is having difficulty getting around, you can install a device that will automatically open and close doors for them. This can be a great way to make your loved one’s life more convenient and help them stay independent. Just be sure to do your research and choose a product that is easy to use and reliable.
Consider your loved one’s needs
When making your house senior-friendly, it’s important to consider your loved one’s specific needs. For example, if your loved one is dealing with dementia, you may want to install locks that prevent them from leaving the house. You should also make sure that there are no hazards in the home that could cause them to fall or injure themselves. By taking the time to assess your loved one’s needs, you can make sure that your home is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Making your house senior-friendly doesn’t have to be a daunting task. There are many things you can do to accomplish this. By following the tips above, you can make your home a safer and more comfortable place for your loved ones. Rest assured that taking the time to make these changes can make a big difference in their quality of life.
