Making your home comfortable and accessible for seniors is more important than you may think. Not only does it make their day-to-day life easier, but it can also help to keep them healthy and independent for as long as possible. And while you might think it’s too expensive or complicated to make the necessary changes, there are many smart solutions you could implement to make the home more inviting for your elderly loved ones. Here are six easy solutions to make their home more comfortable and accessible:
Install Home Lift
If your elderly family member is having trouble getting up and down the stairs, consider installing a home lift system. This can make it much easier for them to access different levels of their home without needing help from someone else. There are so many reliable lift systems on the market that come with plenty of features like emergency stop buttons, adjustable speed settings, and phone jacks so they can call for assistance if needed. Make sure to research all the options available, as some lifts will be more suitable than others depending on the individual’s needs. When you find the perfect platform lift for your home, get it professionally installed to avoid any potential risks. This way, you can be sure that your senior family member is always safe while using it.
Invest in Non-Slip Flooring
Most seniors are at a higher risk of falling, so it’s important to have flooring that provides enough traction for them to get around safely. Some great options for slip-resistant flooring include tile, vinyl, and linoleum. Each one has its benefits, so make sure you look into all of them before making a decision. Depending on their mobility, consider adding rugs with a non-skid bottom to areas like the bathroom, hallway, or living room. Not only will this heighten their safety, but it will also add a touch of warmth to the room.
Add Grab Bars Around the Home
Grab bars are great tools for helping seniors maintain their balance and prevent falls. Having grab bars in places like the bathroom, bedroom, or near staircases can make moving around much easier for elderly people and help them get to where they need to go with a secure grip. If you’re looking to add more safety without sacrificing aesthetics, consider installing decorative grab bars that come in different shapes and colors. Just be sure to get ones made from a non-slip material that’s durable enough to withstand daily use, and mount them properly to ensure they can support the person’s weight.
Upgrade Your Furniture
Having furniture that’s comfortable and easy to use can make a big difference in an elderly person’s life. When selecting furniture for their home, make sure to pick pieces that are supportive yet lightweight enough for them to move around without assistance. You should also consider getting adjustable chairs or couches with reclining features so they can find the perfect position for relaxation or watching TV. For added convenience, look into getting tables and countertops with pull-out shelves or drawers so they don’t have to reach too far when accessing items stored inside. Lastly, choose slip-resistant rugs and cushions for the chairs to avoid any slipping or sliding issues.
Get a Ramped Access
If your elderly family member uses a wheelchair, ramped access can be an essential part of their home. This will not only make it easier for them to move independently around the house but also give them access to outdoor areas like the garden or patio. Make sure you choose one that has enough space for wheelchairs and other mobility devices, as well as plenty of traction so they don’t slip while getting around. You should also look into getting optional handrails for extra support and comfort, depending on the individual’s needs. For added convenience, you could even install a powered ramp so your senior family member can easily get in and out of the house without needing help from someone else
Provide Ample Lighting
Having poor lighting can be a major hazard, especially for elderly people. Make sure to provide ample lighting throughout the house so they can see where they’re going and avoid potential hazards. You should install bright lights in areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or hallway for greater visibility when moving around at night. Motion-activated lights are also a great option, as these will turn on when someone enters the room and help them easily find their way to wherever they need to go. Just make sure not to put too many bright lights in one area to prevent glare that might impair vision
Install Smart Home Devices
Another great way to make your home more accessible for an elderly person is by installing smart home devices. This can include voice-controlled assistants like Amazon Echo or Google Home that allow them to easily access information without needing a smartphone. You could also get connected thermostats and lighting systems for greater convenience, as well as motion sensors that will alert you when people enter certain parts of the house. With these technologies, you can give your senior family member a safer and more comfortable living environment.
In Conclusion
As you can see, there are different ways that you can go about making your home more senior-friendly, from small changes like adding grab bars in the bathroom to major renovations like converting a spare bedroom into a living space specifically designed for them. No matter what route you choose to take, following these six tips will help make your home a more welcoming place for your aging loved ones.
