The Home Modifications Necessary For Seniors Aging in Place

Many seniors prefer to age in place, which means that they want to enjoy their later years in the comfort of their own home. While aging in place can be great for a person’s mental health, it’s important to make necessary modifications to keep the residence safe as a person gets older. Some modifications that will help your elderly loved one to age in place successfully include:

Removing area rugs and other tripping hazards

Your elderly parent’s home can quickly become hazardous if the floor is littered with cords, clothing, and other items that they may end up tripping on. Additionally, the corners of area rugs can start to lift over time, creating another unsafe situation for your loved one. To prevent this from happening, make sure to pay close attention to the floor of your elderly loved one’s home. It should be clear of any potential hazards at all times. Even small items can create a disastrous situation. 

Replace any light bulbs that have burnt out

In order to keep your elderly loved one safe, their home must be well lit. This means quickly replacing light bulbs that have burnt out, thus preventing your senior from having to wander through their residence in the dark. When it comes to in-home care for elderly individuals, good visibility is essential.

Placing grab bars throughout the property

Getting off balance for even a few seconds can put your senior at serious risk of suffering from a devastating fall. Install grab bars throughout the home to make it easy for an elderly individual to quickly regain their balance should they start to get off-center. Place them in hallways, in the kitchen, and especially in the bathroom. In many instances, they can mean the difference between life and death.

Invest in a shower seat

According to professionals in home care, Iowa families should consider installing a shower seat in their senior’s bathtub. This enables them to enjoy a shower without having to worry about standing on their feet and maneuvering around for an extended period of time. Shower seats drastically reduce the risk of in-shower falls, and can enable your loved one to enjoy their bathing experience without worrying about having an accident. This and other minor modifications can make a huge difference when it comes to your senior’s safety as they relax at home.