Do you know an elderly senior who wants to stay at home? If you do, you’re probably worried about their safety. After all, you don’t have the time to sit with them throughout the day because you have obligations as well. Not to worry; there are ways you can help manage and improve the safety of your elderly loved one at home—even when they’re alone.
1. Assess the Home Situation
Some things need to change to improve the safety of a loved one at home. However, you don’t want to make any abrupt changes because this may make it difficult for your senior family member. The first thing to do is to assess the home and identify things that need to change or improve.
The goal here is to make their life easier when they carry out their day-to-day activities. Furthermore, reduce fall risk. Start from the front door and move from one room to another. As you do this, make a list of things that catch your attention.
2. Look at Each Room Differently
Even if you’ve been at that home for years, it’s crucial you look at each room differently this time around during your assessment. Look at it as if it’s your first time to see it, and you’re trying to identify if the area would be safe for your loved one. Looking at it from a third-party perspective may help you see things that you would have overlooked otherwise.
3. Get Rid of Things
There’s a huge chance that there are things in the home that no longer serve a purpose. It could be furniture or other accessories. Remember, your loved one’s safety is your priority; therefore, choose to eliminate things you think will compromise their safety at home.
Take this opportunity to rethink other existing pieces of furniture. Perhaps that plant stand may need to be moved somewhere else? Rearrange the space to make it easier and safer to move for your loved one.
4. Make It Easy for Them to Move from One Room to the Other
It’s vital for the elderly to be able to move seamlessly in their home. Therefore, make sure that the furniture pieces in each room don’t get in their way. You might also want to consider altering some door frames in case your loved one is in a wheelchair.
5. Consider Structural Changes
Older adults are more prone to falls and trip hazards. Therefore, consider making structural changes to the property. As mentioned, you can alter door frames, add more storage spaces, especially in the kitchen, and you can also adjust the height of bathroom fixtures, like the toilet.
6. Involve Them in the Process
As you make these changes around the home, make sure you involve your loved one. It’s still their home, anyway, and they have some things they want to keep and change. Ask their permission, even if it’s only a small thing. Trust us; they will appreciate it.
Conclusion
Making your loved one’s home safe when they choose to stay there is important. These tips will help you make their home safer and allow them to move around easily. Remember, their comfort is top priority so they can navigate their golden years with ease.
Need home health for your senior loved one? Gateway Home Health offers home care in Colorado Springs and Denver, CO. We offer various clinical services to improve the quality of life of older adults at home. Contact us today to learn more!