Is your senior loved one's home a safe environment for aging-in-place? A secure home can provide peace of mind for both seniors and their families. This guide will help you identify potential hazards in various areas of the house, including living spaces, the kitchen, the bathroom, the bedroom, and outdoor spaces. By offering practical advice on how to effectively address these risks, we will help you create a home that allows your senior loved one to live safely and comfortably. Ready to get started?
Living Spaces
To create a safer living space for your senior loved one, start by decluttering walkways and ensuring that floors are clear of cords, rugs, and clutter. This helps reduce the risk of tripping and falling, which can lead to serious injuries. In addition to keeping floors clear, rearrange furniture to create easily navigable paths for both walking and using mobility aids.
When addressing potential hazards in living spaces, pay attention to lighting conditions. Ensure that all areas are well-lit by installing brighter bulbs and additional lighting fixtures where necessary. Consider adding indoor motion sensor lights for added safety during nighttime hours.
Kitchen
A safe and accessible kitchen is crucial for allowing seniors to maintain their independence while preparing meals. To create an age-friendly kitchen, start by rearranging items in cabinets and pantries so that frequently used items are easily accessible on lower shelves. Installing pull-out shelves or lazy susans can also make it simpler for seniors to reach items without straining themselves.
Ensure that all appliances are safe and easy to use by updating outdated models with newer, safer ones. Consider installing an automatic shut-off device on stoves to prevent potential hazards caused by accidentally leaving the appliance on.
Bathroom
The bathroom can be a particularly dangerous area for seniors due to wet surfaces and the need to navigate in and out of the shower or bathtub. To improve safety, install grab bars and handrails by the toilet, shower, and bathtub, ensuring they are securely anchored to the wall to support the weight of your loved one.
Additionally, add non-slip surfaces in the form of mats or adhesive strips in the shower, bathtub, and bathroom floor to reduce the risk of slipping. For seniors with mobility issues, consider installing a walk-in tub or a shower with a built-in seat, allowing them to bathe comfortably and safely.
Bedroom
To create a safe bedroom environment, ensure there is a clear path from the bed to the bathroom and other frequently visited areas of the home. This helps seniors to move around safely, especially during nighttime hours. Installing a bed rail can provide added support for seniors when getting in and out of bed. For increased nighttime safety, add nightlights or motion sensor lights to help illuminate the path in the dark.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces should be safe and accessible for seniors to enjoy fresh air and engage in outdoor activities. Installing handrails on exterior steps and ramps can provide additional support while navigating these areas. Regularly clearing walkways of debris and ensuring they are well-lit can help reduce tripping hazards. Finally, consider installing slip-resistant surfaces on decks and patios to minimize the risk of slips and falls.
Get a Senior Helpers LIFE Profile Assessment
For a comprehensive evaluation of your senior loved one's home, schedule a Senior Helpers LIFE profile assessment. This assessment will examine the 144 safety risks within the home, identifying potential hazards and providing personalized recommendations for improvement.
If you're in Plainfield, Bridgewater, Edison, Basking Ridge, or Somerset, contact us at Senior Helpers Somerset for assistance in creating a safe home environment and compassionate in-home care for your senior loved ones.