As our population continues to age, it’s important that we take the necessary steps to make our homes safe for seniors. From avoiding falls to preparing for medical emergencies, there are a number of things to consider when senior proofing your home. In this blog post, we will explore 6 easy-to-follow steps to senior proofing your home. From installing handrails to providing adequate lighting, these tips will help you create a safe and comfortable environment for your loved ones.
Remove Rugs and Throw Carpets
Removing rugs and carpets is an important step in senior-proofing your home. Rugs and carpets can be a trip hazard for seniors, and they can also make it difficult for seniors to get around the house. If you have rugs or carpets in your home, consider removing them or replacing them with floor mats that have a non-slip backing.
Install a Stairlift
If you’re looking for an easy way to make your home more senior-friendly, installing a stairlift is a great option. Stairlifts can be installed on both straight and curved staircases, and they provide a safe and easy way for seniors to get up and down the stairs. As the guys from www.stairlifthelper.co.uk note, the stairs can be very worrying if you have limited mobility. Installing a stairlift is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you’ll need to do before you get started. First, you’ll need to measure the staircase to make sure the stairlift will fit. Once you have the measurements, you can start shopping for a stairlift. There are many different models available, so it’s important to find one that’s right for your needs.
Once you have the stairlift, it’s time to install it. The process is fairly straightforward, but if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, there are plenty of companies that offer installation services. Once the stairlift is installed, all that’s left to do is test it out and make sure it’s working properly.
Use Nonslip Mats in the Tub and Shower
• Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower/tub.
• Keep the floor clean and dry – mopping up any spills right away.
• Make sure rugs and mats are securely attached to the floor.
• Use night lights to help seniors see where they’re going at night.
Get Rid of Clutter
To make our homes safer and easier to maintain, it’s important to get rid of clutter on a regular basis. Here are some tips for decluttering your home:
1. Start with one room at a time. Don’t try to declutter your entire house all at once or you’ll quickly become overwhelmed. Choose one room to focus on and work through it systematically.
2. Sort your belongings into three piles: keep, donate/sell, and trash. This will help you decide what to do with each item and prevent you from holding onto things you no longer need or use.
3. Be ruthless in your sorting! Don’t keep things “just in case” or because they have sentimental value but you never use them. If you haven’t used something in the past year, chances are you won’t use it again – so get rid of it!
4. Put away anything that doesn’t belong in the room you’re decluttering. This includes items that need to be repaired or stored elsewhere (such as in the attic). Putting them away will help make the room look less cluttered and feel more spacious.
Add Lighting
As we age, our vision changes and we become more sensitive to glare. One of the best ways to reduce glare and improve visibility in your home is to add more lighting. Strategic placement of additional light fixtures can also make a big difference in how safe and comfortable people feel in your own home.
Here are a few tips for adding lighting to your home:
1. Add task lighting where you need it most. Desk lamps, floor lamps, and under-cabinet lights are all great options for adding extra light to areas where you tend to spend a lot of time.
2. Use natural light whenever possible. Keep windows clean and clear, and open curtains or blinds during the daytime to let in as much sunlight as possible.
3. Consider installing dimmer switches. Having the ability to adjust the level of light in a room can be really helpful when trying to reduce glare or create a more relaxing atmosphere.
4. Choose the right light bulbs. LED bulbs are a great option because they emit very little heat and last a long time.
Making your home senior-proof doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these six easy steps, you can ensure that your loved one will be safe and comfortable in their own home. And, if you need any help along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can rest assured knowing that your home is ready for whatever the future holds.