As much as you may already address home modifications to keep your senior safe at home, there may be a few others for you to consider.
Counters and Appliances
Counters can be too high for seniors as they age, particularly if the senior uses assistive devices for mobility. Pay attention to how your elderly family member uses the kitchen and see if there is anything that needs adjusting with respect to counter height. In terms of appliances, it’s possible that some of the ones that are out don’t really get used. Others might need replacing, preferably with an automated version. This is especially true for can openers and similar devices.
Toilets and Bathroom Areas
The bathroom can be a dangerous room all on its own, but the toilet can present special problems for an aging adult. Grab bars around the toilet help to preserve balance, especially if your senior uses an assistive mobility device. Consider an elevated toilet seat to give her extra assistance sitting and standing. While you’re installing grab bars, don’t forget the shower, too.
Outlet Accessibility
Outlets don’t often show up on safety lists, but they can be difficult to reach. If your senior uses a wheelchair, for example, she needs to be able to get to the outlet safely. Consider rearranging furniture to allow for easier access. If that isn’t possible, you might want to contact a licensed electrician to have the outlets moved.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the more important details you can focus on when it comes to safety. Being able to see what is going on can allow your senior to avoid any number of potential safety issues. Consider adding lighting that operates either by touch, sound, or motion. This helps your elderly family member, but can also make it easier for elderly care providers to help her when necessary.
Doors and Door Handles
Double check door widths, especially for an aging adult who uses a walker or a wheelchair. These types of devices require quite a bit of space in order for someone to safely turn around while using them. Door knobs and handles are another safety concern to address. Your elderly family member should be able to open the door on her own, even if her hands have difficulty grasping.
Spend some time in every room of the house and make note of what works and what doesn’t for the aging adult in your life. Then you know where to start with modifications.
If you or an aging loved one are considering homecare in River Oaks, TX, please call the caring staff at At Your Side Home Care. We will answer all of your senior care questions. Call today: (832) 271-1600.
Our Certified Nurse Aides, 24-Hour Live-in Assistants and Home Health Aides are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. We also provide the security and confidence of 24-hour Telephone Assistance, so fast, reliable help is always available when it's needed. To learn more about our homecare services see our homecare services page.
Different people need different levels of homecare. To meet the requirements of our clients, At Your Side Homecare maintains consistent staffing levels of caring professionals. Homecare service is available for as little as a few hours a week, or as many as 24 hours a day, seven days a week
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