Making a home safe for senior living can seem like a daunting task. After all, many seniors face unique dangers in their homes than other age groups do not.
For example, they’re more vulnerable to falls, which can cause serious injuries. They may also be more susceptible to chronic illnesses like heart disease or diabetes, making everyday tasks more difficult. And, let’s not forget, they’re also getting older! This means that their bodies are not as strong or resilient as they used to be, and they may need help with things like bathing, dressing, and using the restroom.
But there’s no need to panic! You can do plenty of things to make your home safer for your loved ones. This article will discuss five ways to make your home more senior-friendly and help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
The first thing on your list you should do is to remove any tripping hazards. These are anything that could cause someone to trip and fall, such as loose rugs, cords stretched across walkways or even small objects left on the floor. If your home has stairs, install handrails on both sides and make sure they’re sturdy. You may also consider installing stair lifts or ramps to make it easier for seniors to get around.
A good way to reduce the risk and chance of falls is to install grab bars strategically in the bathroom and shower. Grab bars provide extra support and stability, making it easier for seniors to get in and out of the shower or bathtub. Grab bars are easy to find and can be found at most home improvement stores.
Investing in a bathroom upgrade can significantly improve senior home safety if you have the budget. For example, a walk-in bathtub or shower can make it much easier for seniors to bathe without worrying about stepping over a high tub wall. You might also want to consider adding additional lighting in the bathroom to make it easier to see.
You can also reduce the risk of falls by ensuring all hallways and staircases are well lit. This will help seniors see potential hazards, such as loose cords or small objects on the floor. You might also want to install lights in strategic places to help seniors find their way around at night.
Last, it’s essential to keep electrical cords out of walkways. Cords stretched across a hallway or staircase can be a tripping hazard, so be sure to tuck them away neatly. Don’t let any cords lie around your home because they can be dangerous.
Making your home safe for a senior living doesn’t have to be complicated. Taking simple precautions and making a few modifications can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. Although it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, taking these steps will help give you peace of mind knowing that you’ve done everything possible to make your home senior-friendly.
