Do you live with seniors in your home? Are you the one who is responsible for their care? As people age, they may find that some things they once took for granted, like climbing stairs or bending down to pick something up, become more difficult. Luckily, there are many home modifications that can help seniors stay safe and comfortable in their homes. This article will discuss some of the most useful modifications you can make to your home to help out your senior family members. With these modifications, your loved ones can live safely and comfortably in their own homes for years to come. Let’s get to the list.
Install a Stair Lift
A stair lift is a device that helps people who have difficulty climbing or descending stairs. These lifts are ideal for seniors who live in multi-level homes and may find the stairs too difficult to navigate on their own. There are different stair lifts to choose from, and each offers various benefits. Then, can you buy stairlifts for spiral staircases? Yes! You can choose from a straight lift for homes with straight stairs or a curved stair lift, which is for homes with curved or spiral stairs.
Stair lifts and chair lift machine are easy to install and come in various styles to suit your taste. The cost varies depending on the type you get and how many features it has. Ensure that an expert does the installation to ensure the safety of your loved one.
Buy a Modular Ramp
If your senior family member has difficulty using stairs, you may want to consider buying them a modular ramp. These ramps are easy to assemble and can be used in indoor and outdoor settings. They come in different lengths and widths to accommodate most homes.
Modular ramps are made of aluminum and have an anti-slip surface which helps prevent slips and falls. They can be installed in front of your home’s entrance or at the side door to make it easier for seniors to enter and exit their house. This type of ramp is very easy to assemble, so you do not need any special skills or tools. The ramps are also lightweight and can be transported in a car, making them perfect for taking with you on trips.
Install a Grab Bar
A grab bar is a great way to help seniors maintain their independence while in the bathroom. These bars provide a safe and sturdy place to hold onto while showering or getting dressed, so they don’t have to worry about falling. You can also use these bars for other purposes, such as helping seniors get out of bed or off the toilet when needed.
When installing a grab bar, it is important to ensure that it is installed properly. It would be best if you used a stud finder to locate the wall studs and then mark their location on the wall. This will ensure that your bar is securely attached to the wall and won’t move around. If possible, work with experts to ensure that the installation is done correctly.
Add a Raised Toilet Seat
A raised toilet seat is a great way to help seniors who have difficulty using the bathroom. These seats are designed for use with standard toilets and can be installed quickly and easily. The height of these seats varies, so you should choose one that works best for your loved one’s needs. You can find them at any home improvement store or online.
When installing these raised toilets, it is important to ensure that they are installed properly. Also, choose the best quality that will not wear and tear after a few months. You don’t want your loved one to have to keep replacing the seat every few months. The toilet seat should also be easy to clean and maintain to prevent the spread of germs and bacteria.
Replace Door Handles
If your senior family member has difficulty reaching for things, you may want to consider replacing their door handles with levers that are easier to grip. Lever-style door handles make it much simpler for seniors who have arthritis or other conditions that affect their mobility. These handles are also more ergonomic and can help prevent hand strain.
If you’re replacing your door handles, you must install the new ones correctly. You may want to hire a professional for this job, so you know it gets done right. Ensure that all screws are in place before using them, or they could become loose over time, leading to falls.
Add a Shower Seat
A shower seat is perfect for seniors who have difficulty standing for long periods or recovering from an injury. These seats attach securely to the wall and provide a safe and comfortable place for your loved ones to sit while they’re showering. They also make it easier for seniors who have difficulty bending over or reaching their feet.
When choosing a shower seat, you should look at the different styles available and choose one that works best for your family member’s needs and preferences. For example, if they like to have a lot of room to move around, you may want to choose a seat that swings out of the way when not in use. If they prefer more stability, then a fixed-seat option would be better. You also want to make sure that the seat is easy to clean and disinfect.
Add a Motion-Sensing Lighting
Adding motion-sensing lighting to your home can help seniors get around safely without having to worry about tripping over furniture or falling downstairs. These lights turn on automatically when someone enters the room and off again after they leave, making it much easier for you not to have to remember turning them on and off each time.
Motion-sensing lights are available in a variety of styles and colors, with some ideal for home decoration, so you can find one that works best for your loved one’s needs. You can also choose between wired and wireless options, depending on what will work best for your home. These lights are typically easy to install yourself, but if you’re not comfortable doing it, you may want to hire a professional to do it for you.
There are many home modifications that can help make life easier for seniors. These include things like adding a raised toilet seat or replacing door handles with levers, which makes it much simpler for them to get around safely without worrying about tripping over furniture or falling downstairs. Other options include installing motion-sensing lighting and adding a shower seat, which is great if you’re concerned about your loved one’s safety when bathing alone.