As our loved ones age, creating a safe and secure environment for them within our homes becomes increasingly important. Elderly parents require help in their old age. Making simple modifications and implementing safety measures can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the well-being of aging parents. Here are some practical tips for making your home safer for aging parents:

Conduct a home safety assessment

Begin by thoroughly assessing your parent’s home to identify potential hazards. Be sure to do this thoroughly, as there are multiple things that you may miss because they may not seem like potential hazards to you.

Walk through each room and pay attention to areas that may pose risks, such as loose rugs, cluttered pathways, poor lighting, or slippery floors. Assess the functionality of doors, locks, and windows as well. This assessment will serve as a foundation for making necessary modifications as it will help identify what changes need to be made at the earliest for maximum convenience.

Make the bathroom hazard-proof

Bathrooms, in particular, can be extremely dangerous for older people with brittle bones. People can slip, fall, and break a bone because of slippers and wet floors. Therefore, spend more time in making the bathroom hazard-proof.

Showering requires a great deal of physical movement, which drastically increases the chances of injury caused by slipping. So contact a walk-in tub installation company to replace the existing tub with a disability-friendly option. You should also place nonslip mats or strips near the bathtub or shower area and install a raised toilet seat and bars for support.

Don’t compromise on lighting

Good lighting is essential for seniors, as their eyesight may deteriorate over time. Increase the lighting throughout the house, especially in hallways, staircases, and entryways. Install bright, energy-efficient bulbs and consider adding motion sensor lights or nightlights to improve nighttime visibility. Ensure that light switches are easily accessible and easy to operate.

Install grab bars and handrails

Installing grab bars and handrails in strategic locations can greatly enhance safety and mobility for aging parents. Mounting grab bars near toilets, showers, bathtubs, and stairways can prevent numerous unfortunate accidents. Handrails should also be installed on both sides of staircases and ramps to provide your aging parents with a secure grip while going up or down. These additions promote stability and help prevent falls and fractures.

Give them the bedroom on the ground floor

Have a bedroom for your aging parents on the ground floor if possible. Frequently climbing stairs can become increasingly difficult and risky for seniors, so providing them with a bedroom on the main level of the house eliminates the need to use stairs more often. Doing so ensures they have easy access to their living space, reducing the risk of accidents.

Remove tripping hazards

Remove or secure any tripping hazards within the home. Loose rugs or carpets, wires sprawling across the floor, and cluttered pathways can increase the risk of trips, falls, and injuries. If you have kids around, there is a likelier chance of accidents because of their curious and hyperactive nature, so tell them to be careful when running around the house and avoid bumping into their grandparents.

Fasten rugs to the floor with double-sided tape or nonslip pads, and keep pathways clear of obstacles, especially toys and shoes. Tuck away wires and cords neatly to prevent someone from tripping over them. Not only will this clear up the floor of tripping hazards, but it will also give your home a neat and clean look.

Invest in mobility aids

Depending on your elderly parent’s needs, consider providing mobility aids such as walkers, canes, crutches, or wheelchairs. These aids can enhance stability and support while navigating through the house. Make sure the aids are easily accessible and properly maintained. You may also have to modify your home in certain ways, such as constructing ramps in case a parent uses a wheelchair.

Encourage your parents to use them whenever necessary to reduce the risk of falls. The purpose of these mobility aids is to aid your parents in every possible way, making it easier for them to do the bare minimum.

Keep medications and hazardous materials safe

Seniors often have multiple medications that need to be managed carefully. Ensure that medications are stored securely, preferably in a lockable cabinet or drawer. Moreover, to make it easier for them to take their daily medicines, invest in a medicine dispenser that makes it easier for both you and your parents to keep track of their intake.

Keep all hazardous materials, such as cleaning products or sharp objects, out of reach and properly labeled. These include kitchen cutlery, hardware tools, and anything considered a sharp material. Doing so reduces the risk of accidental ingestion or injury.

Install a home security system

Installing a home security system can provide an added layer of safety and peace of mind. Choose a system with burglar alarms, motion sensors, and emergency response options. Consider options that allow for remote monitoring and notifications, allowing you to monitor your parents’ safety even when you’re not there. Ensure your parents know how to operate the security system and how to contact emergency services if needed.

Make the home a smart home

Smart home technology is the way to go, as it can further enhance safety and convenience. Smart locks with keyless entry can make it easier for your aging parents to access the house without fumbling for keys. Smart thermostats can help maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce the risk of overheating or cold exposure.

Conclusion

Making your home safer for aging parents is a proactive way to protect their well-being and promote independence. By conducting a thorough home safety assessment, modifying eliminate hazards, and implementing safety measures, you can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and provide peace of mind for yourself and your aging parents. Regularly reassess and update safety measures as your parents’ needs evolve. With a safe and secure environment, your aging parents can continue to enjoy their home and maintain their independence for years to come.

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