Aging is typically accompanied by an increased risk of falling, which can make it difficult for your senior loved one to safely get around his or her home, especially if you’re not able to provide constant supervision. Making the home safer is an important step you can take to help your loved one retain his or her cherished independence. Here are a few suggestions.
Kitchen & Bathroom
From porcelain sinks to marble countertops, hard surfaces abound in kitchens and bathrooms. Help your loved one stay safe in these two commonly used rooms in the home by:
- Placing frequently used items within easy reach
• Using nonslip decals in the bathtub
• Installing grip handles throughout
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to enhance your parent’s safety at home. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated senior home care, Montgomery, AL, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise.
Living Room & Bedroom
Make the living room and bedroom safer for your loved one by removing clutter and wrapping up or concealing cords. Also consider:
- Installing night-lights
• Substituting a corded phone with a cordless one
• Removing loose throw rugs
Stairways & Steps
Stairways should be kept free of clutter. Additional lighting in and around stairways can also prevent falls. For steps leading to the basement or attic, make sure handrails are secure, there are no loose boards, and adequate lighting is within easy reach.
Seniors living with cognitive issues due to Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia often need additional help to age in place safely. Caring for a senior with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Montgomery families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores.
Lighting
If your older loved one is visually impaired, you need to evaluate the lighting conditions in every area of the home. Make sure there is sufficient lighting to enable your loved one to easily move between all the rooms he or she uses. Install high-wattage light bulbs and motion sensor lights as well as lights that can be turned on with a simple clap. Night-lights and flashlights enable aging adults to go to the kitchen or bathroom at night without falling.
Clutter
Pathways blocked by clutter raise the risk of injuries caused by falls. Help your loved one organize his or her furniture and remove unnecessary clutter throughout his or her home. Use double-sided tape to secure rugs to floors or consider getting rid of them altogether to reduce your parent’s risk of tripping, falling, and being injured.
Exteriors
Keep entryways brightly lit with either strong porch lights or motion-sensitive lighting. Walkways should be kept clear of leaves and snow. Outdoor mats and benches near doors can also help with stability.
General Tips
If floors need to be waxed, use nonskid wax. Also consider replacing heavier everyday items such as pots, pans, and mugs with lighter versions.
Almost half of all senior injuries occur in the home. Taking the time to make your loved one’s home as safe as possible can reduce the risk he or she will sustain a serious injury. Encouraging your loved one to maintain a healthy lifestyle with exercise and an appropriate diet can also help by increasing his or her muscle mass, bone strength, and flexibility.
Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading senior care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Home Care Assistance. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call (334) 593-3988 today.