If your mom, dad, or grandparent can no longer live safely at home, you may have invited them to enjoy their golden years in the comfort of your home.
While you can help them enjoy a better quality of life each day, you might need to make a few alterations to your property to support their independence and safety around the clock.
Fortunately, a handful of changes might be all it takes to improve their happiness and comfort. Learn about the five fantastic updates that can support senior living in your home.
- A Wheelchair Lift
If your mom or dad uses a wheelchair, you must consider how they’ll move throughout the home each day and night. A wheelchair lift makes it easy for a disabled parent to explore your property without limitations. Various options are also available for indoor and outdoor accessibility, such as stairs or a porch.
- Pull-Down Cabinet Inserts
As many older adults struggle to reach objects at height, have poor mobility, or have balance issues, pull-down cabinet inserts are a great solution. The handy shelving pulls items downward and outward, preventing your loved one from reaching extensively for items, which may feel physically demanding and could lead to an accident. It also helps take pressure off their aging joints and allows them to cook dishes at home without requesting help.
- A Height-Adjustable Bed
A height-adjustable bed is a great addition to any senior’s bedroom, as they can adjust the position and height of their bed with a remote control. This ensures you never need to worry about your parent or grandparent falling out of bed or straining their back or legs in the process.
Because your loved one can adjust their upper body or head at the touch of a button, it is a great way to improve breathing and circulation while they sleep or rest in bed. Therefore, it’s ideal for seniors with sleep apnea, acid reflux, or nasal congestion.
- A Walk-In Shower
Unfortunately, stepping in and out of the bathtub can feel rather challenging for seniors, causing many to avoid or delay bathing due to fear of an accident. A walk-in shower offers a safer and more comfortable alternative, as your parent or grandparent can easily step into the shower.
Low-profile and curbless options are also available for people who use a wheelchair or walker, as they can easily roll inside without worry. Many walk-in showers include customizable features, such as fold-down seats, built-in benches, or supportive grab bars.
- Carpet Flooring
As beautiful as hardwood, tile, or laminate flooring looks in the home, they can pose a slip hazard for an aging loved one. Soft carpet is a safer option for an older adult, as it offers greater traction and makes it easier to walk each day, especially for seniors who rely on a walker or cane. If your loved one does slip or trip in your home, carpet flooring will provide a softer landing than hardwood, laminate, or tile flooring, helping prevent a serious injury.
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