5 Ways To Make the Home of Your Senior More Accessible
As people age, it becomes increasingly important to make their home environment as accessible as possible. Many small modifications can be made to improve a senior's quality of life. Here are 5 ways to make your senior's home more accessible.
Install Handrails in Key Areas
Handrails are an important safety feature in any home, but they are especially important for the elderly. As we age, our balance and coordination can decline, making us more susceptible to accidents. Stairs can be a particularly dangerous area, but handrails can help to prevent falls by giving users something to grab onto. In addition to stairs, handrails can also be installed in other areas of the home, such as the bathroom or kitchen. These areas can be slippery, and handrails can provide extra support and stability. Installing handrails is a relatively simple and inexpensive way to make your home safer for the elderly. By taking this step, you can help to prevent accidents and make your home more accessible for all.
Install Slip Mats Under Rugs And in Slippery Areas
As we age, our balance and coordination can deteriorate, making us more susceptible to falls. slips and trips are a leading cause of accidents among the elderly, so it's important to take precautions to prevent them. One way to do this is by installing slip mats throughout the home. Slip mats are designed to grip the floor and provide traction, making it less likely for someone to lose their footing. They can be placed in high-traffic areas like staircases and kitchens, or near doorways and bathrooms. In addition, they can be used under rugs or carpets to prevent them from sliding around. By taking these simple steps, you can help create a safer environment for the elderly and reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Put Everyday Items in Easily Accessible Places
As we age, it becomes increasingly important to live in a safe and comfortable environment. Unfortunately, many homes are not designed with seniors in mind, and simple tasks can become difficult or even dangerous. However, there are some easy ways to make your home more senior-friendly. One way is to put everyday items in easy-to-reach places. For example, keep toiletries within arm's reach of the toilet and store food and utensils on lower shelves. This may seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference in the quality of life for seniors. By taking some simple steps, you can make the home more elder-friendly and improve the safety and independence of seniors.
Consider Using Lever-Style Door Knobs
Older adults often face mobility issues that can make it difficult to use a traditional round doorknob. Lever-style door knobs are a great solution for those with mobility issues, as they are easier to grip and require less range of motion to operate. In addition, lever-style door knobs can be installed at any height, making them accessible for people of all sizes. For elderly adults who want to maintain their independence, lever-style door knobs are an ideal solution.
Install Motion Detected Lights in Dark Areas
Many elders have limited sight, which can make it difficult for them to navigate their homes safely. Adding motion sensor lights to dark areas can help reduce risks by providing a clear path and illuminating potential obstacles. When choosing motion sensor lights, be sure to select a model that is bright enough to be easily seen but not so bright that it will be disruptive or cause glare. Also, consider placing the motion sensor in an area where it will not be triggered by pets or other moving objects. By taking these steps, you can help your elders stay safe and independent in their own home.
Conclusion
Making small changes to your elder's homes can have a big impact on their quality of life and independence. We hope you will consider making some of these changes to help keep your loved ones safe and comfortable in their own homes. If you have any questions or need help getting started, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team at Liken Home Care is here to support you and your family every step of the way.