Seniors need a safe and comfortable place to call home, but all too often, they adjust to standard designs that can be dangerous and uncomfortable. It is because the needs of seniors are often lower priorities in favor of more comfortable and convenient arrangements for everyone else. However, with a little bit of effort, it is possible to create a space that meets the unique needs of seniors while still being comfortable and convenient for everyone else in the home.
However, your family might have a senior citizen with a more fragile body than others. Small changes might not be enough, making it necessary to dedicate more funds and resources to senior-friendly home modifications and installations.
Grab Bars
One of the main issues seniors face when trying to live independently is losing balance and falling. It can be due to various reasons, such as age-related changes in vision or reflexes, health conditions that can lead to dizziness or instability, or simply not having enough strength to keep their balance. Falling can often result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, concussions, and death.
Seniors need to have grab bars installed in strategic locations throughout their homes. Bathrooms and kitchens are essential, as these are the areas where seniors are most likely to lose their balance. However, other areas such as near stairs and entrances can also be dangerous, so it is essential to assess the needs of each senior before deciding where to install grab bars.
In addition to helping seniors stay safe, grab bars can also make it easier to move around their homes. It is significant for seniors who have difficulty walking or standing for long periods. Grab bars can help seniors maintain their independence and avoid relying on others for assistance by providing support.
Walk-in Bathtubs
As people age, they can often lose their mobility, making everyday activities like bathing and showering difficult. It is because seniors may find it challenging to balance themselves or to move around quickly. It can often lead to them becoming unsteady on their feet and at risk of falling.
One study found that nearly a third of all seniors who fall do so in the bathroom. It is likely because the restroom is a space with many potential hazards, such as slippery surfaces and hard edges.
It is why walk-in bathtubs are often such a lifesaver for seniors. They provide a safe and easy way for seniors to bathe without worrying about losing their balance. Most walk-in bathtubs have a door that allows seniors to step into the tub and close the door behind them. The amenity eliminates the need to lift their legs over the tub’s edge, which can be difficult for seniors with limited mobility.
In addition to being safer, walk-in bathtubs can also be more comfortable for seniors. They often come equipped with features that make bathing more manageable, such as built-in seats and grab bars. These features can help seniors relax and enjoy their baths without worrying about falling or losing their balance.
Staircase Elevator
One of the most significant challenges seniors face when trying to live independently is navigating stairs. As people age, they can often lose their mobility and balance, making it difficult to walk up or downstairs. One study found that nearly a third of all seniors who fall do so while trying to navigate stairs.
It can be a huge problem for seniors, as stairs are in homes and public spaces. It means that seniors can often struggle to get around both at home and outside the house.
A staircase lift is an excellent solution for this problem, as it allows seniors to quickly and safely navigate stairs without having to worry about losing their balance or falling. Most staircase lifts are installed outside a staircase and have a seat that seniors can sit on as they are transported up or down the stairs. It can be an excellent solution for seniors who live in multi-story homes, as it can allow them to quickly get from one floor to another without having to worry about the stairs. In addition, this can also be an excellent solution for seniors who find themselves struggling to navigate stairs in public spaces, such as at a shopping mall or an office building.
Live Feed Monitoring System
For many seniors, living independently at home is a top priority. However, this can often be difficult to do without proper supervision. Seniors can often lose their balance or mobility as they age, making it difficult to navigate stairs or walk around independently.
Families of seniors must consider installing a live feed monitoring system in their homes. A live feed monitoring system allows you to keep an eye on your loved ones, giving you peace of mind that they are safe and doing well.
Most live feed monitoring systems consist of security cameras connected to your phone or computer. It means that you can watch the live footage from anywhere, allowing you to check in on your loved one.
In addition, many live feed monitoring systems also come equipped with sensors that can detect when a senior has fallen or requires help. You can be alerted immediately if your loved one needs assistance, allowing you to provide them with the support they need right away.
Installing a live feed monitoring system in your home can give you the peace of mind that you need to know that your loved one is safe and sound.
Living with your senior family members can be both rewarding and challenging. On the one hand, you enjoy spending time with them and watching them grow older. On the other hand, you may have to help them with tasks that they find difficult, such as bathing or navigating stairs.
No matter what challenges come with living with a senior family member, it is always rewarding to see them happy and healthy, making these home adjustments worth it.
