Table of Contents
As our parents age, it’s natural to worry about their safety, especially in their homes. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, and making home modifications can help prevent them. Last week we discussed simple options to improve home safety. Today we look at a little more in depth renovations.
These changes will not only make the home safer but also allow your loved ones to remain independent for longer. In this article, we’ll explore key areas of the home where simple updates can reduce fall risks and improve mobility.
The first area to focus on is the entryway. Many older homes have steps leading into the front or back doors, which can be difficult for someone with limited mobility. Installing ramps at these points can eliminate the need to climb stairs and make it easier for your loved one to use a walker or wheelchair. You should also make sure the entryway is wide enough to accommodate mobility aids. Consider widening the door frames if necessary.
Stairs inside the home can be just as dangerous. Adding handrails on both sides of the stairs can provide extra support for balance. It is important to note that stairs are a major factor keeping out loved one’s leg strength up. If they are capable of safely ascending/descending stairs, removing them will likely lead to decreased quad strength and increased risk of falls due to weakness. So ramps and lifts are nice when absolutely necessary, but don’t rush to install before they are needed.
Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous areas in the home for seniors. Installing a walk-in tub or a low-threshold shower can prevent falls by removing the need to step over a high edge. These options make it much easier and safer to bathe without assistance. In addition, low-threshold showers are easier to use with a shower chair, which can provide further support during bathing.
Another simple way to improve bathroom safety is by adding grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub. These bars give your parent something sturdy to hold onto, reducing the risk of slipping or losing balance. Non-slip flooring like rubber can reduce slipping and soften the fall if one does occur.
In the bedroom, make sure the bed is at the right height. Eighteen to twenty-four inches is a safe range. A bed that is too low or too high can be difficult to get in and out of safely. And avoid beds that are so high a stool is required for access. I have seen many fractures resulting from a trip and fall related to using steps or a stool to enter the bed. Adjustable beds are a good option because they can be raised or lowered to fit your loved one’s needs. These beds can also offer additional comfort, especially for seniors with mobility or medical issues.
The kitchen is another area where modifications can make a big difference. Pull-down shelves or pull-out drawers can make it easier for your parent to reach items without needing to stretch or bend over. Keeping frequently used items within easy reach is essential to avoid unnecessary strain. Lowering countertops can also help make cooking and meal preparation more accessible.
Flooring in the kitchen should also be slip-resistant, as spills are more likely in this area. Non-slip mats can help reduce the chance of slipping near the sink or stove. These simple upgrades can make everyday tasks safer and allow your loved one to continue cooking and preparing meals independently.
Good lighting is crucial for preventing falls. Most older homes have a single ceiling light in the center of a room if there is overhead lighting at all. Installing can lights in hallways and rooms can improve lighting throughout the home. Motion-sensor lights in key areas like hallways, bathrooms, and kitchens ensures that your parent can see clearly when they move from room to room, especially at night. Bright, adjustable lighting should be used in high-traffic areas to reduce the chance of tripping over objects or furniture.
Safe flooring is also important throughout the home. Vinyl with a soft pad or backing or rubber flooring provides better grip than wood or laminate and is easy to maintain. This makes it a great option for areas like the living room, kitchen, and bedroom.
Technology can play a big role in keeping your loved one safe at home. Smart home devices, such as voice-activated systems, can allow you or your parent to control lights, appliances, and even the thermostat without having to move around the house or even from another location. This reduces the need for unnecessary trips for you to check on your loved one.
Medical alert systems are also a good investment. These systems can detect falls and send an alert to caregivers or emergency services. Many have wearable options but if your loved one is anything like mine, they may fight the wearing of a “badge” that is a reminder of their inabilities. In that case, whole home monitoring systems are available with the focus on fall detection. There are options that use non-optical forms of monitoring so privacy is not invaded with a camera.
Making these home modifications is an important step in helping your parent age safely in place. These changes not only reduce the risk of falls but also allow them to maintain their independence. Whether you start with simple fixes like adding grab bars or make bigger updates like changing flooring throughout the home, every modification helps to create a safer environment.
By investing in these changes now, you can prevent serious injuries and give your loved one the freedom to continue living in their own home. Keep in mind that their needs may change over time, so ongoing assessments of the home will ensure it remains a safe and comfortable place for them to thrive.
That's all for today.
Take care, keep mom safe at home and have a great day!
Winn
I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and have been working with the 70+ age group for over a decade. I will share my knowledge and experience to give you ideas to care for your aging parents. Read more >>