If you are the caregiver of an elderly person, then there is a good chance that they feel uncomfortable in their own home. This can be especially true if they have been living in the same house for decades. There are many ways to help these people feel more comfortable and enjoy their time at home. We will discuss 6 improvements that can make them happier and healthier!
Make The House More Accessible
In this generation, it is important to have a safe and secure home. For your house to be accessible, you will need the following: rails on both sides of stairs, doorways should measure at least 32 inches wide with no obstructions in front or around corners, handrails should run along all staircases within 12-inches from their ends, bathroom walls should not contain any sharp edges that can lead to cuts while using a walker. It’s also best if there are handles mounted inside showers and tubs so seniors won’t slip when getting out. Getting stairlifts for narrow stairs is important too, as having a limited, narrow space increases the risk of them getting hurt on the wall or banister. Furthermore, flooring should consist of non-slip surfaces such as vinyl tiles rather than carpet. If having an outdoor pool is what other family members want then make sure the surface is non-slip and there are no steps for seniors to fall off of.
Add More Light
Adding more light to the house makes it easier for seniors to see things. The best way of doing this is by adding windows especially in places where there are not many lights such as hallways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. In areas that have a lot of sunlight then you can just use window coverings or curtains instead so residents would feel relaxed when they wake up. Also, install nightlights throughout your home because some senior citizens find it difficult walking around after dark even if their rooms have dim lighting.
Add More Storage
The house needs to be equipped with cabinets and shelves because these are the things that seniors need for their medications, toiletries, and other items. For expert advice and a selection of storage solutions, you can seek help over at Unique Vanities to find a functional and stylish storage option designed with style and accessibility.] You can put a dresser in your loved one’s bedroom so they have more storage space as well as a closet organizer to keep them from wasting time looking for what they want to wear. The kitchen also needs extra storage spaces such as a pantry or an overhead cabinet instead of just countertops where you can find food easily when cooking. Also, try having built-in bookcases near beds so residents will always have an easy way of getting something during nighttime without straining themselves out by walking around a dark room trying to figure out which shelf has their medicine bottles on it. Having wall-mounted organizers is another way of making your house more accessible for seniors.
For expert advice and a selection of storage solutions, you can seek help over at Unique Vanities to find a functional and stylish storage option designed with style and accessibility. You can put a dresser in your loved one’s bedroom so they have more storage space as well as a closet organizer to keep them from wasting time looking for what they want to wear. The kitchen also needs extra storage spaces such as a pantry or an overhead cabinet instead of just countertops where you can find food easily when cooking. Also, try having built-in bookcases near beds so residents will always have an easy way of getting something during nighttime without straining themselves out by walking around a dark room trying to figure out which shelf has their medicine bottles on it. Having wall-mounted organizers is another way of making your house more accessible for seniors.
Before making a change, always consider the mental state of your elders. For example, if your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s, have in mind the confusion and agitation that happens when they’re confronted with unfamiliar surroundings. Specialist care for dementia will probably be needed but there are also some changes you can make around the house yourself. It is important to minimize opportunities for confusion and frustration. Clutter should be removed from rooms, doorways should be kept clear, and all potentially dangerous items should be out of reach. In addition, it is important to provide clear visual cues throughout the home, such as labels on doors and cabinets. By making a few simple adjustments, you can help your loved one maintain their independence and quality of life.
Add A Second Floor
If your loved one’s house already has the first floor then adding another one will be beneficial. A second floor is where they can stay when you are not around or if the first floor gets too tiring for them to walk up and down every day. Having an office on this level is perfect so older residents would have space for their computers, printers, and other important items that keep them connected with their friends and family members all over the world.
Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is important to help prevent the development of airborne illnesses, especially in older people who are more likely to be affected by respiratory problems. Many homes still don’t have proper ventilation systems which lead to hot weather during summertime and cold winter months that may cause people ill-health conditions including pneumonia since germs could be residing inside moist walls. One way that you can improve air circulation is through ceiling fans with lights and remote controls, which will also give your home an inviting ambiance for all visitors. If moisture does form on these surfaces then mold and mildew will develop.
Add More Closets
In a house, it is nice when there are extra spaces for storage. It makes the home feel more comfortable and livable because you always have room to put things away that clutter your living space, or just provide another place to keep items like linens; especially if an old person has difficulty hanging up clothes in closets due to physical limitations. If they do not live alone, then adding some extra storage can make their life easier with less stress on loved ones who might need help keeping everything organized and clean.
And finally, make sure that the house is safe for all of its inhabitants. Install grab bars in bathrooms and kitchen, replace slippery floor surfaces with slip-resistant options, install railings on both sides of stairways to reduce falls downstairs. The most important thing you can do as a homeowner is focus on your senior family member’s comfort and safety.