The desire to age at home with the people we love is strong among older people. According to research, 90% of older adults prefer living at home to moving to an assisted living facility.
For seniors, comfort, independence, and safety are three features that outweigh their will to change locations at a vulnerable age. The lack of in-home mobility solutions prompts them to move to a facility where basic safety is guaranteed. While older adults value the comfort and security offered at an assisted living facility, most still prefer playing the final innings with their loved ones.
Thanks to technology and cutting-edge in-home mobility solutions, you can accommodate the growing needs of older people. This blog lists widespread home improvements and modifications that make your place more inclusive, comfortable, and accessible for older adults.
Bathroom Modifications for Safe In-Home Mobility
In-home mobility is a critical aspect of independent living for seniors. Bathrooms, however, pose a significant threat, with recent studies revealing that falls account for approximately 60 percent of injury-related emergency department visits for those aged 65 and older. Shockingly, over 50 percent of injury-related deaths annually among seniors are attributed to falls, and up to 80 percent of these incidents occur in the bathroom.
Wet surfaces, slippery floors, and the necessity for maneuvering around various fixtures make bathrooms a potential hazard for older people. Recognizing these challenges, you must take active measures to transform bathrooms into safer spaces, allowing seniors to maintain their independence without compromising safety.
Here are some measures you can consider:
- Grab Bars: Safe Home Pro installs strategically placed grab bars near the toilet and shower in crucial bathroom areas to enhance stability and support. These bars provide a reliable hold, minimizing the risk of slips and falls.
- Shower Seats: Installing foldable shower seats allows for a comfortable and secure bathing experience. Seniors can adjust the height according to their preferences, promoting independence and reducing the risk of accidents.
- Non-Slip Bathtub Mats: Prioritize the installation of non-slip bathtub mats, offering a secure grip in wet environments. These mats are designed to fit any bathtub, providing enhanced safety without compromising style.
Also Read – 6 Ways to Make Your Home Safer & More Accessible
Modifying the Stairs for In-Home Mobility
For many seniors, indoor stairs pose a significant challenge to in-home mobility. Stairs, while an integral part of home design, can become barriers, limiting access to different levels of the house.
Stairlift installation is a transformative solution that ensures seniors can navigate indoor stairs easily and safely. Stairlifts are designed to provide a comfortable and secure means of moving between different levels of the home, promoting independent living.
Here are a few critical features of stairlift installation that you should remember:
Versatility: You can find stairlifts for various staircase types, including straight, curved, and narrow stairs. This versatility ensures you can implement a customized solution regardless of the home’s layout.
Comfort and Safety: Choose stairlifts that prioritize comfort and safety. Adjustable seats, footrests, and armrests offer a personalized fit, while safety belts and sensors prevent movement in the presence of obstructions, providing a secure ride.
Professional Installation: Remember the commitment to safety extends to the installation process. Choose a certified technician team that follows a precise and secure stairlift installation procedure, guaranteeing optimal functionality and reliability.
Achieve In-Home Mobility & Accessibility Anywhere with Portable Ramps
In-home mobility is critical in maintaining independent living, and portable ramps are crucial in overcoming accessibility challenges. These ramps are versatile solutions that provide a safe and comfortable way for seniors to navigate uneven surfaces, steps, and thresholds indoors and outdoors.
Here are critical portable ramp features that set them apart:
- Convenience: Portable ramps offer the comfort of enhancing accessibility wherever needed. Seniors can carry these lightweight ramps, ensuring a reliable solution for navigating various entry points.
- Adjustable Height: Portable ramps have flexible height options for different settings and specific needs. This feature allows for customization, ensuring a smooth and safe transition between surfaces.
- Durability: Constructed from durable materials, portable ramps are designed to withstand various weather conditions. This durability ensures long-lasting performance, making them a reliable choice for indoor and outdoor use.
- Wide Range of Sizes: Portable ramps are available in an extensive selection of sizes, catering to various entryway widths and height requirements. This variety allows for flexibility in addressing different accessibility needs.
Making Informed Decisions for In-Home Mobility Modifications
Caring for elderly family members ensures a safe and accessible living environment. Making decisions about in-home mobility modifications involves careful consideration and planning to enhance seniors’ overall quality of life.
Essential Steps Before In-Home Mobility Modifications:
- Assessment of Mobility Needs: Before initiating any modifications, thoroughly assess the senior’s mobility needs. Identify areas where assistance or alterations are required to promote independent living.
- Consultation with Healthcare Professionals: Seek input from healthcare professionals, such as doctors or occupational therapists, who can provide insights into specific mobility challenges. Their expertise can guide the selection of appropriate modifications.
- Family Discussion: Involve the entire family in the decision-making process. Discuss the proposed modifications, addressing any concerns and ensuring consensus on the changes to be made within the home.
- Budget Planning: Evaluate the financial aspects of in-home mobility modifications. Establish a budget that aligns with the identified needs and explore financing options if necessary. Consider the long-term benefits of creating a safe and accessible home environment.
- Research and Education: Familiarize yourself with the available home modification options. Explore resources such as home modification guides to understand the solutions to address specific mobility challenges.
- Professional Consultation: Engage with professionals specializing in in-home mobility modifications. Schedule consultations with certified contractors or specialists who can provide expert advice and tailored solutions based on the assessed needs.
Implementing In-Home Mobility Modifications:
Once you follow all preliminary steps, proceed confidently in implementing in-home mobility modifications. Choose grab bars, ramps, or stairlifts based on the unique requirements identified during the assessment.
The Right Choice for In-Home Modifications
Safe Home Pro has just what you’re looking for if you want to modify your interior and make way for in-home mobility. With a team of certified aging-in specialists and licensed contractors, we can revamp your place in 2024 to make room for safe and independent living.
