As your parents or grandparents age, it becomes increasingly important to make sure their home is safe and easy to navigate. You can do several things to make a home safe for seniors, and many of them are simple and affordable. In this post, we’ll discuss some ways to make your home safer for seniors. Keep reading for tips on adding ramps and railings, creating clear pathways, and more.
Ramps and Railings
Ramps and railings are a great way to make the home safer for seniors. Adding a ramp in front of the house can provide easy access for those with mobility issues. Additionally, installing handrails along staircases and hallways will help your family member move around the home more confidently. These simple items can be relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
Clear Pathways to Make a Home Safe for Seniors
Make sure there is always a clear path with no clutter or obstacles blocking the way. This can help lessen the chances of falls and will make it easier for seniors to move through their homes without any issues. Additionally, make sure that rugs and carpets are adequately secured to the floor, as loose items can be a tripping hazard.
Lighting to Make a Home Safe for Seniors
Good lighting is essential for seniors. It helps them navigate the home more easily and reduces the risk of falls. Install bright light fixtures along staircases and hallways to make it easier to see where you’re going. Additionally, adding night lights in bedrooms and bathrooms can be helpful for late-night trips to the restroom.
Safety Features
There are plenty of safety features you can install in your home. Consider adding grab bars near the toilet and shower/tub in the bathrooms. This will help provide extra stability when getting in and out of these areas. Install lever-style door handles instead of knobs because they are easier to grip. Also, place non-slip mats in the shower or tub so your family member isn’t at risk of slipping and falling.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Installing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is essential for keeping seniors safe. Make sure these are installed on each floor of the home, and check them regularly to ensure they are in proper working order.
Health Monitoring can Help Make a Home Safe for Seniors
If your family member has chronic health conditions, consider installing a monitoring system alerting you if their health is declining. There are a variety of systems available, so do some research to find the one that best suits your needs.
Home Maintenance
Finally, remember to stay on top of home maintenance tasks such as changing furnace filters and testing smoke alarms. These simple steps can help keep seniors safe and reduce any potential risks. The earlier you catch a problem in the home, the less likely it is to become a serious hazard.
These are just a few ways to make your home safer for seniors. With some simple steps, you can ensure that your family member lives in a safe and comfortable environment. Don’t forget to check on them regularly and ensure that all safety measures are taken care of.
Sevens Property Inspections provides inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in New York City. Contact us to schedule an appointment.