Many senior citizens are choosing to age in place, or continue living in the home they love versus moving to an assisted living community. Unfortunately, some of these home’s designs have become difficult and unsafe to maneuver around. However, if you take the time to brainstorm some ideas and confer with some specialists, you can make the family home safe and homey.
Observe the needs of your aging parent
Observe how your aging parent gets around the house when you visit as it will give you insight on their mobility and what needs to be done.
Clear the clutter
Remove any area rugs and excess furniture that could be tripped on. Keep as much space clear in each room, as possible. This allows access for walkers or wheelchairs without bumping into things.
Opt for a no-step entry
Create at least one no-step entry into the home. You may have to talk to an architect to see if this is feasible. Add a ramp into your main exterior entrance as well. It’s ideal for wheelchair accessibility but it provides functionality and fun as children will love playing on it and it provides curb appeal.
Update to softer floors
Update the flooring to something softer, in case your loved one falls, they won’t break any bones. Rubber flooring is ideal for senior citizens since it’s both slip-resistant and soft, as well as being easy to clean.
Upgrade lighting
As they age, seniors need brighter lights, and it’s more difficult for them to change the light bulbs. Consider upgrading to LED bulbs as they are long-lasting and some last up to 50,000 hours. That means if you use it 12 hours a day, that bulb would last 11 years.
Open floor plan for wheelchair access
Check that all open spaces have a five-foot by five-foot access so wheelchairs can turn and move around easily or that seniors can back up with their walkers without tripping. Arrange a simple furniture plan with only the necessities. Consider adding grab bars throughout the house, not only in the bathroom but in the living room as well on the walls, which will assist them in standing up from their favorite chair.
Meet with a specialist
It’s often beneficial to meet with a variety of specialists, including a certified Aging in Place specialist, an occupational therapist, and a professional interior designer that works on these homes before. Refresh Organizers & Designers can help so contact us at (510) 570-1292.
