As we age, ensuring our households are safe and comfortable becomes increasingly important. If you have elderly relatives living in your house, chances are they require extra care and support to remain independent and confident. Here are some tips to make your home safe for seniors.
Do a Safety Inspection
Start by assessing the safety of your home. Are the wooden stairs slippery? Are there loose rugs that could be a tripping hazard? Make sure pathways are wide enough to accommodate walkers or wheelchairs if necessary. Check the bathroom and look for tripping hazards and areas where a family member may slip. Test handrails on staircases to verify they are securely attached to the wall.
Alarm Systems Make a Home Safe for Seniors
Installing an alarm system with motion detectors, window alarms, and door sensors will go a long way in preventing intrusions and keeping elderly family members safe while alone. Modern smart security systems allow you to check the camera feed from a smartphone. If a motion is detected, you can log in and determine if there is an intruder or if it’s the mail carrier delivering a package.
In addition to a home security system, consider installing an emergency alert system so older family members can quickly call for help should an accident occur.
Grab Bars
Another great option is installing grab bars where falls are more likely due to slippery surfaces. Grab bars provide security and support while keeping loved ones safe. Install grab bars inside and outside the shower and beside the toilet to help older family members maintain their balance.
It’s essential to install handrails on both sides of staircases so seniors don’t lose their balance if they need to climb up or down stairs in the home.
Upgrade the Lighting
People may have difficulty navigating their homes in low lighting as they age. It is crucial to create a safe environment for seniors, and one of the easiest ways to do this is by upgrading the lighting. Adequate lighting throughout the house helps older family members see obstacles and tripping hazards, preventing falls and injuries.
Make sure all pathways are well-lit with minimal shadows. Install under-cabinet lighting to illuminate work areas in the kitchen. Motion-activated night lights are an excellent addition to hallways and bathrooms. These lights will power on automatically when motion is detected. Improve existing lighting by installing brighter bulbs or additional lights on walls and ceilings.
Making your home safe for seniors doesn’t have to be complicated; even small changes make a big difference. With simple modifications, such as ensuring good lighting throughout the house, installing alarm systems and grab bars, or adding stair rails, you help ensure senior citizens in your home stay safe and comfortable.
JBS Home Inspections offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the greater Boston area. Contact us to request our services.