It's not always possible or feasible for a senior loved one to age in place. Sometimes, it becomes necessary to move them into a nursing home (you can go online to research the ones with various levels of care). In other cases, the best solution is for them to come and live with you. But before they move in, you'll need to prepare your home to ensure it provides safety and comfort. From Capital Disposal, here are some ways you can achieve both.
Reassess Your Lighting
As people age, TCP Lighting notes that less light is able to enter the eye due to weakening muscles and decreased pupil size. Updating the lighting in key locations is an inexpensive and quick way to reduce falls. Install wireless motion-sensing lights, which can eradicate the issue of seniors forgetting to turn on their lights.
Due to a decrease in ADH levels as people age, visits to the bathroom during the night become more frequent, making a bedside lamp essential. Provide a touch lamp to save seniors from fumbling around in the dark trying to find the switch. They're also ideal for those who have arthritis.
Fire Prevention
Certain complications associated with aging increase the likelihood of a senior adult accidentally starting a fire, so it's essential to check all your smoke alarms regularly. Check them monthly to make sure they're free of dust. Simply wipe it away with a dust cloth or dry rag if you find any.
Make sure to change regular-type batteries in the units every year and once every 7-10 years for long-life alarm systems with integrated batteries. You should also limit the number of cords plugged into power strips and replace any frayed or damaged cables.
Finally, as adults over the age of 75 are 2.4 times more at risk of death from a candle fire in the home, according to The National Fire Protection Association, it might be best to remove any you have or make sure they are safely out of reach.
Bathroom Safety
To limit the risk of falls in the bathroom, install grab bars. There are many upgrades and changes you can make to your loved one’s home for safety. Replace your standard toilet seat with a raised one to make it easier for your elderly relative to lift themselves on and off the toilet.
Consider replacing your current bathtub with a walk-in bath if your budget allows it. Place non-slip rubber mats in the bathtub and install a handheld showerhead. If your loved one has Alzheimer's, remove any mirrors from the bathroom as they could cause a great deal of uneasiness.
Outside Help
Refinance your mortgage is one way to meet the costs of senior-friendly upgrades. What does it mean to refinance your home? The process essentially replaces your current loan with one featuring a higher balance. It allows you to cash out the difference between the two, enabling you to cover the cost of medical care or home modifications.
If you are not confident in making the necessary home improvements, employ a trusted company skilled in disability and senior renovations. They can execute any necessary modification or construction to ensure your loved one’s safety.
A Safe Transition
Simple things like increasing the light around your home and installing grab bars in the bathroom will provide a safer environment. They shouldn't take long but will ensure an easier transition for your senior loved one. These kinds of upgrades and changes will help them be able to age in place for many more years to come.
GUEST BLOGGER SETH MURPHYw/ Papadity.com
Need to rent a dumpster for your decluttering project? Turn to Capital Disposal! Call us today at 512-229-1969 to request a rental quote.
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