How to Create a Safe Home for Aging Adults | Home Care Tips

A safe and comfortable environment for our aging loved ones is one of the most important ways to care for the people who once cared for us. Intentional changes to their home environment can make a world of difference, from reducing falling risks and making accessibility modifications to integrating smart technology. Even the smallest changes can play a big role in maintaining independence and peace of mind.

Here are some areas to consider while preparing a safer home for aging adults

1. Reduce fall risk

Mobility is essential for good health and helps in flexing the muscles and improving blood flow. However, polished hardwoods, slick tiled floors, and rugs with curly edges can trip loved ones up from moving around. Injuries from falls are a serious concern, may require hospitalization, and potentially lead to long-term disability. Some viable solutions include;

• Installing grab bars in bathrooms by focusing on areas with high fall potential, such as inside and outside the shower/tub, next to the toilet, and near stairways.

  
  

  

  
  

• Lighting hallways and staircases, especially at night. Use motion sensor lights where possible so aging adults won’t have to remember where the switches are.

  
  

• Use a non-slip surface like bath mats and treatments, and rearrange furniture for clear pathways. Remove stools from dangerous corners, and carefully arrange the areas to allow wheelchairs or walkers

2. Implement smart home solutions

Adopt the use of smart devices to make the home environment safe and independent for aging adults. It goes beyond convenience. They offer practical support for daily living.

Technology tools, such as voice assistants, can help with tasks like setting medication reminders, controlling lights, making hands-free calls to family members, or even playing calming music for relaxation.

Other forms of smart home care solutions like interactive tablets designed for aging adults, fall detectors, automated pill dispensers, and GPS tracking devices. It helps to stimulate cognitive abilities

3. Structural adjustment

Adjustments in the home for an aging adult are important to reduce the risk of injury and improve safety and accessibility. This adjustment can help aging adults with mobility issues move freely without the fear of injury or disability, and it never crosses their minds to think of risk.

This includes widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs, installing stairlifts, lowering sinks, or countertops for easier access, and installing ramps at entrances to eradicate the need for stairs. And possibly locking out some rooms like the basement or where junks are kept.

4. Consider Engaging a Homecare service

As our older loved ones face new challenges, simple daily tasks like bathing, getting dressed, preparing meals, and managing medications can become increasingly difficult. Family members often step in to assist, but the demands of caregiving become overwhelming, beyond technology and home modifications alone. This is precisely where the invaluable support of professional home care services arises

Hire a professional home caregiver in Maryland to assist with daily living activities in the comfort of your home. When seeking a home care service, prioritize a reputable provider that offers personalized care plans tailored to the specific needs of your loved ones, ensuring their comfort, safety, and well-being.

Learn more about how Spirit of Hope Home Care can support your family's unique needs.

5. Maintain Ongoing communication

As our aging adults age, prioritize regular communication with them. Staying connected helps keep track of their health status and support their emotional well-being.

Ongoing communication involves checking in consistently, either through regular visits, video chats, or phone calls, listening actively, and encouraging them to share how they feel.

Additionally, staying in touch with the caregiver can help you stay informed about your loved one's well-being. Creating a safe home environment for aging adults requires thoughtful planning and consideration. Remember, taking small steps now will make a big difference later.

Start applying these tips now to create a safe home environment for your loved ones. We are offering a free in-home assessment to evaluate your needs for families staying in Howard, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, and Montgomery counties. There is an RN available 24/7 to visit your home today.

Ready to ensure your loved one's safety and independence? Call us today for a free in-home assessment: +1 (240)-423-3099. Or, book a call online at your convenience.