As we age, we may struggle to navigate our living spaces. Fortunately, there are simple steps to make a home safe for seniors. Let’s look at ways to make a house easier to navigate and more functional for elderly family members.
Make a Home Safe for Seniors with Handrails & Non-Slip Mats
Handrails in hallways and staircases help support seniors as they move through the home. Grab bars in the bathroom assist with safely entering and exiting the shower. Choose non-slip bathmats to provide comfort and security while bathing or showering.
Replace Door Handles with Lever Handles
Due to their shape and design, traditional round door handles can be difficult for seniors to grasp. Replace these knobs with lever handles to allow older family members to open doors easily because it’s unnecessary to grip the level tightly.
Make Sure Electrical Cords are Out of the Way
Extension cords, power strips, and other electrical cords should always be out of walk paths and hallways. Loose cables left on the ground are a tripping hazard.
Remove Throw Rugs
Throw rugs are a common household item that can be hazardous for seniors. These decorative items increase the risk of slips and falls, and older family members may struggle to navigate them with a walker or wheelchair. Remove throw rugs from the home to make a safer environment for senior citizens. Install a safer flooring option, such as cork, that isn’t slippery and offers cushion in case of a fall.
Upgrade the Lighting to Make a Home Safe for Seniors
Upgrade the lighting, so elderly family members can see where they will prevent falls or other accidents. Several types of lighting can be used around the home: overhead lighting, task lighting, accent lights, and night lights. Overhead lighting brightens a room, while task lights on desks or under cabinets provide more focused illumination, making reading easier for seniors with vision problems. Accent lights add a decorative touch while helping seniors navigate hallways at night. Install night lights in bathrooms and near stairs if someone is up after dark.
Making sure your home is safe for senior citizens is essential for maintaining their health and well-being. With these simple tips and tricks, you can create a space that is both comfortable and secure for those living in your home, no matter their age. Whether you’re looking to install handrails or simply secure electrical cords away from reach, taking action now will help ensure that your home remains safe now and into the future.
Outlook Home Inspections offers inspection services to customers in Charlotte and upstate South Carolina. Contact us to request an appointment.