How Can You Make a Home Safe & Comfortable for Elder Care?

Creating a safe and comfortable living space for elderly individuals requires thoughtful planning and attention to detail. Whether you’re caring for a parent at home or preparing your own space for aging in place, small modifications can make a significant difference in daily comfort and safety.

Remove Fall Hazards throughout the Home

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults, making fall prevention a top priority in elderly care environments.

Clear pathways and secure loose items:

• Remove or secure loose rugs, electrical cords, and clutter from walkways.

• Ensure all stairs have sturdy handrails on both sides.

• Install nonslip strips on stairs and in bathtubs.
• Keep frequently used items within easy reach to avoid overreaching.

Improve lighting conditions:

• Add bright LED bulbs in all rooms, hallways, and stairwells.

• Install motion-sensor night lights for safe nighttime navigation.

• Ensure light switches are easily accessible at room entrances.
• Place lamps within reach of beds and favorite seating areas.

Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality at-home care. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Modify the Bathroom for Safety and Independence

The bathroom presents unique challenges for elderly individuals due to wet surfaces and the need to move between sitting and standing positions.

Essential bathroom modifications:

• Install grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub.

• Add a raised toilet seat or toilet safety frame for easier transfers.

• Place a shower chair or bench in the bathtub or shower area.

• Use a handheld showerhead for greater control and flexibility.

• Install a walk-in shower or tub if your budget allows.

Additional safety measures:

• Keep towels, toiletries, and medications within easy reach.

• Use a bath mat with suction cups to prevent slipping.
• Consider a toilet paper holder that’s easy to reach from a seated position.

If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of respite care. Jasper seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable home caregivers.

Create Accessible Storage and Organization Systems

Proper organization reduces strain and makes daily tasks more manageable for elderly individuals.

Kitchen accessibility:

• Store frequently used items between waist and shoulder height.

• Use pull-out drawers in lower cabinets to avoid deep reaching.

• Install lever-style handles on cabinets and drawers.
• Keep a sturdy step stool available for occasional higher storage.

Bedroom and closet organization:

• Place everyday clothing at accessible heights.

• Use closet organizers with easy-to-reach compartments.

• Keep bedside essentials like medications, water, and emergency contacts nearby.
• Choose furniture with rounded corners to prevent injury.

Ensure Proper Temperature Control and Air Quality

Elderly individuals often have difficulty regulating body temperature and may be more sensitive to air quality issues.

Temperature management:

• Set thermostats to maintain consistent temperatures between 68 and 78°F.

• Use ceiling fans to increase air circulation.

• Provide extra blankets and layers for individual comfort preferences.
• Check that heating and cooling systems are well maintained.

Air quality considerations:

• Change HVAC filters regularly to reduce dust and allergens.

• Use air purifiers in main living areas if needed.

• Ensure proper ventilation in bathrooms and kitchen areas.
• Keep indoor plants that naturally improve air quality.

Install Emergency Communication and Safety Systems

Having reliable communication and safety systems provides peace of mind for both elderly individuals and their caregivers.

Emergency preparedness:

• Install a medical alert system with 24/7 monitoring.

• Place phones in multiple locations throughout the home.

• Program important numbers into speed dial.
• Ensure cell phones are always charged and accessible.

Safety monitoring:

• Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms with loud, clear signals.

• Test all alarm systems monthly and replace batteries regularly.

• Consider motion sensors that can alert caregivers to unusual activity patterns.
• Keep flashlights and battery-powered radios in accessible locations.

Hiring a professional caregiver is a good way to ensure your loved one enjoys a high quality of life in the comfort of his or her own home. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide in-home care. Jasper families can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. Call one of our Care Specialists today to learn about our customized in-home care plans.