When you’re looking after a senior loved one, you want to do everything possible to keep them safe and comfortable. Their home is where they feel the most at ease, and by making a few changes, you can help them live happily and independently for as long as possible. Throughout this article, we’ll give you tips to create a safe and comfortable living environment for your elderly loved ones.
Start by Assessing the Home Environment for Senior Safety
Imagine you’re not as steady on your feet, have limited mobility or vision, and take a walk through each room.
For the kitchen, think about what they use most often daily and place it where it’s easier to reach. These things can be dishes, glasses, snacks, and anything else they might want to grab daily. As for the bathroom, the first thing you have to do is prevent slips and falls. Bathrooms can be tricky not just for the elderly but for everyone else, too. In the living room and bedroom, arrange existing furniture and make way for wider paths, this is especially important if your loved one uses a walker or a cane. Make sure the bed is high or low enough for easier getting in and out.
Improving Lighting and Visibility
Good lighting is significant for safe movement around the home, especially if your loved one has vision impairments. A well-lit home helps them better navigate and prevents trips.
- Place lights at stairways, hallways, and the bedroom, and consider nightlights or motion-sensor lights for trips to the bathroom. By adding these simple safety modifications, you can effectively prevent accidents in the dark.
- Use dimmable lights in living spaces to reduce glare, and task lighting for reading or kitchen work.
- Make sure that bulbs are working and replace them as needed to ensure consistent lighting throughout the home.
Use Home Safety Devices and Services
Home safety devices, such as medical alert systems, emergency response devices, and secure entry can really bring the peace of mind, offering both emergency response and support for your loved one’s daily life.
With wearable medical alert systems, you have quick access to help if a senior falls or feels unwell. Emergency response devices, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors create a safe environment. Secure entry systems include door sensors, video doorbells, and keyless entry, all of which add an extra layer of security.
Encouraging Mobility and Physical Activity
Maintaining physical activity plays a huge role in a senior’s overall health, helping with balance, strength, and mobility. Even in small doses, movement can improve physical well-being and promote senior independence.
- Gentle exercise options: Encourage seniors to engage in low-impact activities, such as walking, chair yoga, or light stretching, which are safe for aging bodies and can be done indoors.
- Mobility aids and support: For seniors who use walkers or canes, home modifications should accommodate these aids. Make sure hallways are wide enough and that there’s plenty of room around furniture.
- Regular movement breaks: If your loved one spends a lot of time sitting, remind them to stand up and stretch throughout the day to keep circulation flowing.
Medication Management and Safety
Managing medications, including taking the right dose at the right time, becomes harder as we age. Help your loved one establish a schedule and organize medications. For instance, pill organizers can be very effective for seniors with multiple prescriptions. Store their medications in a single andd easily accessible location, not exposed to heat or humidity as these conditions can impact effectiveness. Finally, regular check-ins with your loved one’s doctor will ensure there are no adverse interactions.
Hire A Professional Home Care Agency
Let’s admit – taking care of your senior can sometimes be overwhelming and it’s totally understandable if you find yourself in need of a little extra support. New Beginnings – a Philadelphia Home Care Agency offers a range of services, from companionship to help with daily tasks. Bringing in a caregiver, even for a few hours a week, can provide you with peace of mind, knowing your loved one has someone looking out for them.