Preparing Your Home for Elderly Parents

If your parents are planning on moving into your home to make it easier to care for them, it might feel overwhelming to make the right adjustments. You might not know where to start in making your adjustments. The good news is there are several ways to get started with the right adjustments.

Consider Mobility Problems

You might not think anything of getting around the home's stairs and different levels, but older people who have limited mobility might have some trouble with this. You should look over the home, including areas like bathrooms, hallway width, and common areas. If you live on multiple levels, you might want to think about the accommodations you can make.

You can consider installing a home lift. That way, they can easily move from floor to floor. You can choose a subtle domestic lift that will look attractive and get the job done. In general, your parents should be able to get around easily and have the space to do this. Ensure that they can access everything they need to. Even just adding a few grab bars to the walls here and here can make a difference to them. And you may consider helping them live as much on one level as possible. That could include setting up a bedroom for them on the first floor.

Making Entryways Safer

Helping make mobility safe is one of the crucial tips for taking care of elderly parents you need to address. Whether it's stairs, coverings, or lighting, there are several things you can do to turn an entryway into a safer space. You can start with the home's exterior and make sure that the pathway leading up does not have gaps or cracks. You can also put in some non-slip strips to make it easier for your parents to keep their footing.

Stairs going up to the door might need railings or ramps added to the area. That way, a walker or wheelchair can go up with ease. And it is equally important to ensure that there is proper lighting in all the areas. They should be able to see the space well, even at night. You might want to have motion sensors put in so the lights come on when movement is detected. Consider the interior entryway as well. Make sure that there are no rugs that could cause slips. If the floor is tile or another smooth surface, you might tend to put a non-slip mat over the area. However, the rugs should not be thick since the edges can then cause a tripping hazard.

Making Bathrooms Safer

Bathrooms can be dangerous places since the surfaces can be slippery when wet. And getting in and out of the shower can increase the danger level. There are several ways to ensure this part of the home is as safe as possible. You can put in non-slip mats for the shower and floor. You can also have seats or benches added so your parents can sit down if necessary. Of course, grab bars are also important and should be sturdy enough to support as much as 300 pounds.