Many people choose to age in place at home. This means certain safety modifications must be made. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four older adults in the U.S. report falling every year. Here are some tips on how to make a home senior-citizen-friendly.
Create Safe Entryways
An entryway that is well-designed, safe and easily accessible can prevent accidents. Make sure it’s wide enough for people using wheelchairs and walkers to get through.
Install Proper Lighting
Poor visibility can lead to trips and falls. Install lighting fixtures along walkways and illuminate the entire entryway, including steps. Make sure all high-traffic areas inside the home, including family rooms, are also well-lit.
Replace Door and Cabinet Hardware
Traditional knobs are hard for people with arthritis to firmly grasp. Consider replacing door and cabinet hardware with D handles, which are easy to open.
Bathroom Safety
Place grab bars in the shower and near the toilet. Consider putting a corner seat in the shower as well. Switch the showerhead to a handheld one for extra safety. Raise the toilet seat so it can easily be reached.
Hallway Safety
Grab bars placed elsewhere in the home help people maneuver or rest. Stairway railings are also useful.
Kitchen Tips
Many falls occur in the kitchen as people carry heavy pans and fail to notice spills on the floor. Consider installing a no-glare, non-slip tile or low-pile carpet to make a kitchen less slippery.
Martino Construction Group specializes in Long Island home renovations. Our services include kitchen and bathroom upgrades and accessibility modifications such as ramps, handrails and wider doorways. If you need to make a home elder-friendly, contact us today for a consultation.
