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How to Set Up Your Home for an Aging Loved One

Article by Harry Cline

There are different modifications you should make to make your home senior-friendly. If you’re expecting an aging loved one in your home, you should get senior-friendly bathroom fixtures, kitchen conveniences, and other features that will make their stay safe and enjoyable. Collinsville Township has some suggestions you could use to make your home ideal for an elderly loved one.

Physical Changes

The elderly have mobility problems, which can increase the risk of falls, leading to bruises and broken bones. You don’t want your loved one experiencing this when they join you to live in your home. One way you can make it easy for the elderly in your home is by making physical changes before the move.

Stairs can pose a problem, especially if they’re in a wheelchair or use walkers. If possible, station an elderly loved one on the first floor to avoid unnecessary investments in a chairlift or ramp. Also, consider getting additional bathroom facilities with easier accessibility. All these upgrades and improvements can be costly, so explore financing options to pay for them. A mortgage refinance is one as it delves into your home equity to free up cash for renovations.

Secure Entryways

You’ll also need to transform the entryways to ensure they’re safe zones. Begin with the home’s exterior, ensuring the pathway or driveway is level and free of gaps and cracks. It’s a good idea to install non-slip strips and scuffs to help improve the elderly’s footing on wet days. If there are stairs, consider installing railings. Additionally, ensure that all spaces are well-lit. You can get motion sensor lights to enhance convenience for everyone. All this applies to the interior entranceway, as you should make everything non-slip and accessible.

Rearrange Furniture Accordingly

Part of ensuring your home is safe for your elderly loved ones is adjusting your furniture arrangement. This helps to make the space easy to navigate. If your furniture setup looks like a maze, it can be challenging for the elderly to get around. This is especially important to consider if they’re in a wheelchair or use a walker. Rearranging your furniture can create more space for the elderly to move around without hurting themselves. If it’s possible, move couches close to the walls and keep end tables at their side. Area rugs are unnecessary as they can be hazardous to your elderly loved one if they have limited mobility.

Picture of a Woman and dog

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Stock Up the First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an important feature in every home. If you have an elderly loved one who wants to move in with you, ensure you have antibiotic creams, bandages, and other essentials. Place the kit in an area everyone in the house can access it, and ensure to check regularly to keep it stocked.

Clear Up Clutter

Whether you have kids, pets, or a lot of things, you should ensure any clutter-causing items are managed well before taking in an elderly loved one. You don’t want an elderly parent to trip on your kid’s toys. Also, you don’t want them to use energy rummaging through piles of stuff trying to find something they want. Keep items you use often in a place that’s easily accessible for the elderly. All other items you can store neatly when not in use. It’s a good idea to secure your pets in their designated area if they’re not trained.

Setting up your home for the elderly means making them feel at home. It’s the first step in making their transition stress-free. Help them add their personal items like family photographs, artwork, and furniture. A good environment makes them feel welcome, so also look into the activities and other services offered at the Collinsville Township Senior Center to keep your senior engaged. Learn more here.