As we age, our living environments may need updates to accommodate limited mobility, vision problems, and other issues that older adults face. Your home may require special attention to ensure safety and security. Here are a few helpful tips to make a home safe for seniors.
Assist Mobility to Make a Home Safe for Seniors
Seniors may have difficulty walking due to physical limitations or health issues. Make sure your home has wide hallways and doorways to provide easy access to rooms and living areas. If an elderly family member uses a walker or wheelchair, add ramps to assist them in changing levels. Check the handrails on staircases to verify they are securely attached. Keep stairs and hallway clear of clutter and remove any cords or wires that could pose a tripping hazard.
Improve the Lighting
Good lighting is essential for seniors with vision issues or problems seeing in the dark. Install bright lights in your home’s common areas, hallways, staircases, and near doors. Use motion-sensing lights in hallways and bathrooms for easier navigation after dark. Motion-sensor lights outside the house boost visibility and improve safety. They power on when someone approaches, illuminating pathways for seniors who come home after dark or take evening walks outside.
Safety Devices
Install safety devices in the home for seniors who live alone to protect against theft or other emergencies. Motion sensors on windows and doors will alert you if they open unexpectedly. Test smoke alarms monthly to verify the alarm will sound. You can also install smart locks on exterior doors to use a password or fingerprint identification instead of keys; no one else can enter the home without permission.
Clutter-Free Living Spaces Make a Home Safe for Seniors
Clutter can be dangerous, creating hazardous conditions for anyone in the house. Keeping the home free of clutter is important to make the area safe for seniors. Organize the house by clearing unnecessary items that take up space or create obstacles. Remove throw rugs that could pose a tripping hazard and make a place to store belongings. Older family members may struggle to find what they need when items are out of place.
A safe home is vital for a senior citizen’s well-being and should not be overlooked when designing the layout or decorating its interior spaces. With simple changes like better lighting, improved accessibility features, and advanced safety devices, you can keep everyone in your household secure – especially those who may need a little extra care. By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a comfortable living space that’s perfect for your elderly family members.
R. Sorensen Construction and Inspections offers home inspections in Eastern Oregon. Contact us to schedule our services.