How to Safely Prepare a Home for Your Aging Loved One

If you have a loved one who prefers to age in place and stay in their home, then there are many changes that must happen in order to prepare their home to be safely habitable. It’s also important that they still feel independent, as a study by Genworth Financial reports that more than half of seniors’ greatest fears regarding a long-term care illness or event was being a burden on their family. In fact, this concern was five times greater than their fear of dying.

Follow the tips below to make sure your loved one’s home is as safe as possible.

Skidproof ideas:

• • Add non-slip flooring in all areas of the home, especially by the front door. This area can get slick with rain and snow, so you will want to add non-slip scuffs for improved footing.

• • Repair broken or cracked sidewalks, paths, and driveways around the home.

• • If possible, install a no-rise entry with a ramp and a sturdy railing.

• • If you have stairs, make sure the railing is at least two inches in diameter to accommodate aging grips.

• Add contrast stripes on the stairs to increase visibility. Don’t forget treads if the steps are made of wood, and if there is carpeting, make sure to secure it to the floor to minimize the risk of slipping and falling.

Senior Safe Kitchen Design:
The goal in the kitchen is to create a functional, easy to navigate area.

• • Switch kitchen appliances with easy-to-read controls and simple push-buttons, making operating the oven and dishwasher easier.

• • Consider installing a slide door oven, so your loved one will not have to lift heavy items over a hot oven door.

• • Make the switch to glass cabinet doors for easy identification of items.

• Implement Lazy Susans and roll out trays for increased accessibility.

Senior Bathroom Design:

• • Always, always invest in sturdy bathroom accessories, as the majority of accidents happen in the bathroom. This means going to your hardware store to get fixtures and appliances, not a big box store with cheaper, inferior products.

• • Use U-shaped or vertical bars for balance rather than diagonal. Diagonal bars create slippage.

• • Add a fold down bench in the shower and a hand-held, adjustable for height shower hose for easy access.

• Add extra lights as necessary, because many bathrooms are created with young eyes in mind. Your loved one may have difficulties with visibility when it is dark, creating another trip and fall hazard.

If you are concerned about the wellbeing of your loved one, then it is important to think about senior in home care. This senior care service is incredibly beneficial for aging in place, as it allows the senior to stay in their home with a qualified caretaker. In home care is a great alternative to a nursing home, as you can pick and choose when the caregiver comes, which will give a sense of independence to your loved one.

Interested in learning more about senior in home care in Redondo Beach? Contact our experienced professionals today.