Whether you are caring for an aging parent or relative, you may consider the benefits of aging in place. Remaining at home can prevent loneliness, encourage independent living, and reduce care costs. However, this choice may also come with some risks, which needs to be managed well. In this guide, we’ll look at how to upgrade the home of aging loved ones to reduce the risk of falls and encourage peace of mind for you and your whole family. Let’s dive in.
Bathroom Safety Upgrades
The bathroom is one of the areas that may pose greater risks, including falls and slips. However, with the right adjustments, you can create bathrooms that are functional, aesthetically pleasing, and safer as your loved one ages. Some upgrades you may consider include:
- Adding grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower.
- Using raised height toilets that make it easier to sit and stand.
- Adding non-slip mats on the bathroom floor and in the tub or shower.
- Adding a shower chair or bench.
- Changing faucets to lever handles that can be managed more easily.
- Making sure the bathroom has bright, clear lighting.
Accessibility Features
Beside the bathroom, it is also important to consider how accessible the home is as a whole. After all, you’ll want your loved ones to continue enjoying the activities they love most, including reading, watching TV, gardening, or cooking. Some strategies include:
- Adding handrails on stairs and in hallways.
- Installing ramps over steps to make entrances more accessible.
- Using door handles you can push down, not twist, for easier handling when grip strength decreases.
- Making doorways wider for walkers or wheelchairs.
- Placing switches and outlets where they can be reached easily (without having to stand up).
- Keeping floors flat and removing trip hazards, such as carpets.
- Leaving wide, clear paths between furniture.
- Rethinking the garden design to reduce the risk of falls.
Improve Safety With Technology
The right technology, including sensors, wearables, smartphones, and smart home tools can help improve livability, independence, and comfort throughout the day. For instance, virtual assistants, such as Alexa, allow your loved ones to control several aspects, including temperature and lighting, and carry out tasks, such as phoning friends, checking the weather, or listening to the news. Additionally, wearables and alarms can be helpful to track vital signs and alert loved ones of an emergency, such as a trip or fall.
Improved Lighting
Improving lighting is essential, especially if your aging loved ones have impaired vision. Bright, layered lights and easy to find switches can prevent falls and injuries, and make everyday life more comfortable. When upgrading their home’s lighting, consult them on what’s important. For instance, do they often cook? Task lights in the kitchen can make it easier to prepare ingredients and use kitchen tools. Do they spend long hours reading or playing cards? Brighter lights in the living room can help.
Ultimately, there is no one size fits all solution, but you can invest in the right upgrade by consulting your loved one on their preferences and getting the guidance of a specialized healthcare provider.
