It’s not always possible to create a home design that is based on a senior’s needs. However, there are steps you can take to make any house more senior-friendly. If you have an aging parent or loved one living with you and want to make your home more accommodating to their needs, use the tips found here.
Replace Traditional Doorknobs
You may not think much about turning a traditional doorknob. However, simple action can be a difficult and painful task for someone with arthritis or other conditions. Taking time to replace your doorknobs with more traditional lever-style hardware will make life much easier on people affected by these conditions. While replacing your doorknobs, consider the same for your faucets. Also, light-up rocker switches are more senior-friendly than traditional toggle light switches.
Flooring Improvements
Slippery surfaces in your home can cause serious accidents and injuries. You need to ensure the flooring is slip-resistant. An easy and affordable way to do this is by adding non-skid mats under your area rugs. You may also want to remove these rugs. Remember that tripping is just as dangerous as slipping, so you should remove potential tripping points when possible. If you can’t eliminate them completely, try to reduce their height. If your senior loved one uses a walker, use low pile carpeting, so the walking aid doesn’t catch and cause them to fall.
Stair Safety
Are there multiple levels in your home that a senior must traverse daily? If so, you likely know this poses a significant risk. Make sure to install handrails on both sides of your staircase if you can. Plenty of lighting is also important. Be sure you have adequate lighting for your staircase from top to bottom. It’s also beneficial to ensure the steps are clearly defined so seniors can see where the edge of the tread is, which will help prevent falls.
Bathroom Improvements
While installing shower grab bars is one way to make bathrooms safer for seniors, there are other methods you can use, as well. One is to add grab bars near the toilet. In fact, adding these bars in places where a senior may need a bit of assistance is smart. Another option is a step-in shower; however, this is a bigger update and requires a larger budget. Consider having a faucet control with just a single handle, which will reduce the possibility of scalding. Handheld showerheads are also beneficial for individuals with limited mobility, then the fixed overhead options.
Making Your Home Senior Safe
As you can see, there are many ways you can make your home senior safe. Be sure to keep the tips and ideas described above in mind. Making these updates will help reduce the potential of an accident, slip, trip, or fall. This will also give you peace of mind that your senior loved one is safe in your home. Be sure to add other senior safe elements, too, as this will help to improve the person’s quality of life.
As always, at Diamond Residential Mortgage, we are here to serve you and committed to uphold your best interests, whether you are a first-time homebuyer, veteran or looking into a reverse mortgage. Click here for a location near you and to speak to a Loan Advisor.
