Why simple home modifications are helpful
Dangers inside the house add up over time, making it easier for older adults to trip, fall, and hurt themselves. Falls are a top reason why seniors lose independence and mobility.
That’s why it’s so important to make their homes as hazard-free as possible. Safety updates improve:
Self-sufficiency and self-reliance
Mobility
Safety
Security
Comfort and convenience
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10 quick safety solutions for bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen
These 10 safety updates are quick and simple. Many don’t even require any tools or installation.
Your older adult will probably insist that they can and will take care of these items themselves, but let’s face it, they’ve already had plenty of time and nothing has changed.
Even if you have to insist on doing it for them (or do it secretly as a “surprise”), making fixes can go a long way to preventing accidents.
And even if they might not admit it, they’ll probably be relieved to have these chores off their mind.Safety IssueSafe Solutions1Is the path to the bathroom clear and unobstructed?Remove any clutter or decorative items along that path.2Is there automatic night lighting near the bed and from the bed to the bathroom?Get simple, inexpensive plug-in night lights that automatically turn on when the area is dim.
Here are three options:
Home Depot Plug-In Incandescent Automatic Dusk to Dawn LED Soft White Night Light (4-Pack)3Are there properly installed grab bars and toilet safety add-ons?No-installation needed
See our article on bathroom safety items, including grab bars.
Installation required
For difficult locations without convenient wall studs, consider this mount-anywhere system for grab bars that install easily and support 300 pounds.
Options from Home Depot (but avoid anything suction-based!)
Expert Tip: Check out these recommended ADA grab bar placement and some installation tips.4Are there slippery bath mats outside tubs or showers?Remove all traditional bath mats or rugs. They can easily cause trips and slips because they’re relatively tall and tend to bunch up, flip up at the corners, or slide around.
To soak up water after a shower or bath, try a low-profile, non-slip mat instead.5Are tubs or shower floors non-slip?This non-slip spray treatment
is highly rated and works better than stick-on products which will eventually come off.
Permanent stick-on non-slip strips are better than removable suction mats. Mats tend to get slippery and mildew-y quickly.
Expert Tip: Make sure the tub or shower floor surface is clean and dry before applying any anti-slip stuff.6Is there an adjustable hand-held shower head?These convenient shower heads let your senior have the option to sit safely while showering. They’re also quick and easy to install.
Here are some options from Home Depot.7Is there a shower bench or chair?No installation needed!
A few options:
Drive Medical Shower Chair, Adjustable Shower Stool with Suction Feet
Medline Shower Chair Seat with Padded Armrests and Back, Heavy Duty, Slip Resistant
DMI Tub Sliding Transfer Bench and Shower Chair with Non Slip Aluminum Body with Cut Out Access8In the bedroom, can they reach items in the closet and drawers easily?Move frequently-worn clothing to places where it’s easiest to access. Avoid putting things on high shelves, the closet floor, or in drawers that are hard to open.
Expert Tip: Cleaning out unworn clothes (or putting them in a storage area) helps create more space for easier access.9In the kitchen, are often-used items within easy reach?Move frequently-used items down from high shelves and up from low shelves. Put them within easy arm’s reach.
Expert Tip: This is a good time to get rid of some kitchen clutter too!10If your older adult can safely use one, is there a safe step stool with a handrail available?Two options:
Home Depot Gorilla 2-Step Compact Steel Step Stool
Recommended for you: — Bathroom Safety for Older Adults: Grab Bars and More! — Q & A: Safe Bath Mats for Mom? — Home Safety for Seniors: 13 Home & Kitchen Fixes in One Day
By DailyCaring Editorial Team Image: S & S Legal Group
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