Home Safety – Improving the Home Environment
Although there are some great ‘Universal Design’ homes that are being created for disability and age in mind, building a home customized to accommodate an elder isn’t always an option financially.
However, there are some things you can do with a quick trip to a hardware store, to better equip the home of an elder.
Common Home Care Safety Upgrades
Non slip floors – area rugs or wall to wall carpet is better than slippery tile or wood. Make sure you have no-slip pads under area rugs and consider that thick pile carpet may be clunky with a walker.
Good lighting
Step-in shower vs. tub
Grab bars in all the right locations – on both side of the stairs, in shower and near toilet
Single-handled faucets to avoid scalding
Safe stairs – treads that don’t slip or have loose carpeting
Lever-handled door knobs
Paddle-handled fixtures on sinks and showers
Pocket doors
A spring-loaded switch for the garbage disposal that must be held in the “on” position while it’s running
Contrasting edging on the front of counters to avoid spills and bumps. Corners should be rounded, not sharp
Rocker-panel light switches that can be easily flipped with a fist or an elbow
Raised or adjustable toilet seats
Raised, front-loading washers, dryers, and dishwashers that don’t require stooping or reaching
It’s also a good idea to eliminate clutter or groupings of furniture that can impede the flow of movement
Create free flowing space with an eye for accommodating a walker or wheelchair and make sure anything on the floor (that can contribute to tripping or falls) is cleared
Safe, Comfortable… at Home Care
Improving the living space of anyone who is beginning to show physical limitation in their daily occupation, can offer unlimited benefits.
Broad Street can help safely equip your home - from fall-prevention to medication management… to whatever you need to feel comfortable at home.
Our personal assistants are connected directly to our professional network. Broad Street can help you improve the home environment and maintain safe living.