Dorothy was right; there’s no place like home. We see the findings again and again, when given the option of downsizing to a smaller living space (such as a senior apartment), moving in with family or into an assisted living facility, or trying to remain in their existing home, the majority of older adults prefer aging in place.
The comfort of memories and familiar surroundings are overwhelmingly attractive, in spite of the normal concerns that arise with aging, such as mobility and safety.
Before discounting an older loved one’s desire to remain at home and pushing for an alternative living arrangement, see if any of the following accommodations can be implemented to enhance safety and allow him or her to remain at home:
- Bring in a home inspector to thoroughly go over the home, from roof to basement, including electrical, plumbing, heating and other systems.
- Rearrange furniture to allow for wider pathways, and make sure walking areas are clear of books, cords, shoes and other objects.
- Remove any objects from stairs, and ensure that adequate lighting and secure handrails are in place.
- Rearrange kitchen items to store those that are most often used on more easily accessible lower shelves.
- Add grab bars beside the toilet and in the tub/shower, add slip-resistant strips to the floor of the tub/shower, and reduce hot water temperature to no more than 120 degrees F to prevent burns.
- Make sure a light and phone are within reach of the bed, and store a flashlight and batteries in the nightstand.
For more tips on creating a safe living environment in your senior loved one’s cherished home, read the full article from the Shreveport Times, or call Heaven at Home Senior Care at 866-381-0500 to find out how we can help make aging in place comfortable. From help with medications, to meal preparation, to hygiene assistance, to companionship, we can provide seniors with a caregiver Denton, TX families can trust to help seniors thrive in the comfort of their own home.