Top Home Adaptations for Elderly Safety and Independence
By Emma Sullivan, Healthcare Journalist
22 September 2023
As our loved ones age, the homes they've lived in for so long can start to feel harder to navigate safely and independently. However, making practical adaptations doesn't require rebuilding from top to bottom. With some well-planned modifications, you can enable your elderly relatives to continue living comfortably in their beloved homes for years to come without compromising their independence or safety. This room-by-room guide covers potential home adaptations worth considering to boost accessibility and prevent fall risks as people age.
Entrances and Outdoor Areas
A good place to start is the entrance to the home, as it is one of the most common areas for hazards. Installing ramps or re-grading paths can eliminate any upward steps, which pose a major fall risk for the elderly with mobility issues. It's important to fit sturdy handrails on both sides of any steps to provide vital support when entering and exiting. Increasing outdoor lighting also improves visibility and safety for seniors coming and going, especially at night.
When it comes to paths and driveways, consider replacing uneven surfaces like gravel with smooth, level paving. This provides a stable, trip-free surface for walking aids or wheelchairs. At the front door, it's also wise to increase the lighting over the entrance and install a video doorbell to see who's calling without having to get up.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a key area for home modifications to help elderly individuals live independently. Walk-in showers or low-level access baths can significantly reduce the risk of falls by eliminating the need to step over tub walls. Installing grab rails near toilets, showers, and baths can provide essential support for sitting down and getting up. Raising toilet heights or adding raised toilet seats makes using the toilet much easier and safer.
Other helpful modifications include replacing bathtubs with wet rooms or level-access showers, as well as installing non-slip flooring. Mobility towel rails and shower seats can also help prevent bending or stretching. Additionally, sensor lights can be installed to automatically illuminate the bathroom when someone enters.
Kitchens
In kitchens, consider adjustments that put regularly used items, worktops and appliances within easy reach to prevent over-stretching. Lowering counter heights or installing lower sections may improve accessibility during food preparation. Install pull-out shelving in cabinets and pantries so items at the back can be accessed easily without bending down.
Swap standard cabinet handles, taps and appliance controls for easy-grip, lever-style alternatives designed for less mobile hands. Add task lighting under wall cabinets and over worktops too. For safety, remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and fit soft door closers to prevent fingers from getting trapped.
Living Areas
The key in bedrooms and living rooms is minimising potential fall hazards which can cause serious injury to the elderly. Brighten these spaces with additional lamps, brighter bulbs or motion-sensor lighting. Remove any trip risks like loose rugs, trailing cables or cluttered walkways that could obstruct paths. Rearrange larger furniture pieces to create generous, clear paths between them.
Fitting lever-style door handles that don't require grasping or twisting can make opening doors easier for those with mobility issues. Raising electrical outlets and light switches can prevent excessive bending.
Stairs and Hallways
In two-story homes, fitting secure handrails on both sides of all staircases is vital for elderly safety and independence, providing crucial support when going up or down steps. Ensure stair treads have a good grip and clear any clutter. Install bright lighting focused on step edges to clearly see each one.
In hallways, keep paths completely free from obstructions like boxes or furniture pieces. Adjust or add lighting to ensure the entire length is amply illuminated to avoid collisions with walls or objects. Finally, consider adding a stair lift if climbing up becomes too difficult.
Conclusion
Adapting homes for elderly needs doesn't mean taking a sledgehammer to the place and starting over. Often, simple yet well-planned and affordable adaptations like these can be made gradually over time. They'll allow loved ones to comfortably remain in their cherished homes long-term while preserving their independence, dignity and safety as they age. Consult resources from trusted organisations to find more potential home adaptation ideas tailored to individuals' specific needs.