Sadly, getting older is something that happens to everyone. Worse than this, the more people age, the more likely they are to injure themselves doing routine tasks that they barely thought about before. This can lead to a lot of anxiety about living independently. No one wants to be put into a home or assisted living. Fortunately, there is a step in between this, if you feel like you are only struggling a little bit with your usual levels of independence. The important thing here isn’t just to continue to struggle but to make some small adjustments to your life to make it easier. Here is a little bit of advice on how you can do that.
Alert systems
This is a really great idea for those elderly people who want to maintain their independence but are a little concerned about contacting people if they need help. Medical alert systems can be used around the clock as they put you in contact with a company that will guide you in what to do in an emergency or they will contact the emergency services for you. This can ensure that you are okay when an emergency does strike. It is peace of mind for you and your family.
Changing your flooring
Making your flooring safe can really improve your chances of not falling when in your home. This can be especially true if you drag your feet a little or have balance issues. If you have a high-pile carpet or a hardwood floor or a tile floor can all, be a tripping hazard. To avoid the classic slips, trips, and falls by replacing your flooring with low pile carpet or review your hardwood or tile flooring slip rating, especially in your high-traffic areas.
Secure your rugs
You can secure your rugs with a non-slip pad or with some grip tape to minimize your risk of falling. They are usually easy to install and can really help you. These grips will keep your rug edges from curling up which takes away another risk. If they become unstuck, they can usually be reactivated with a little bit of water. This is especially useful if you want to clean under them. Even better than this is that the gripping gel doesn’t leave any marks and can work on carpets.
Shower bench
You can improve the safety of your shower by installing a shower bench. This will reduce your risk of slipping and can give you a little bit more peace of mind in the shower. Many benches are able to stand on their own in your shower or bath and can help you enter and exit the shower. You should look for a bench that is reversible or sturdy. They can make sure that your time in the shower is easier and safer.
Upgrade your bath
One of the best inventions of the older generation is the walk-in tubs. It is one of the most dangerous items in a home and where most slips happen to older people. Converting your existing tub into a safe space can make your shower time easier. You can always also install grab bars and handrails to help you get in and out of the bath.
A security system
One of the things that you can do to make yourself feel safe and comfortable in your home is to install a security system. There are so many options out there. Some allow for you to have cameras that you can check remotely via a computer or smartphone. This means that you do not need to answer the door to people that you don’t know and that you don’t need to worry about your home either at night or when you are out and about.
Making your home safer for an elderly person
Getting older makes you more susceptible to having an accident. There are lots of things that you can do but it will all depend on how confident you feel in your own abilities. You need to assess what will actually make your life easier. Many people find that getting some additional help around the house perhaps in the form of a home care team, can make a really positive difference.
Carers can assist with tasks such as bathing, meal preparation, medication, and more, helping the elderly person to feel supported whilst remaining in their own home. Furthermore, many care companies now use private duty home care software to store client care notes and update information immediately, which is made visible to both caregivers and family members thus allowing you to stay informed about the care and progress of your loved one. Whatever, you decide, you don’t need to do everything at once. You can take it little by little to make sure that your home is safer for either yourself or any elderly relatives. This will make you and them feel more comfortable at home.
