As we grow older, our bodies become weaker and more prone to injuries. A simple slip or fall can lead to serious health issues in seniors. For this reason, it is essential that senior citizens take additional safety measures within their homes. In this article, we’ll discuss 5 essential home safety upgrades that every senior citizen should consider.
1. Bathroom Modifications
The bathroom often presents a high risk of injury for seniors due to its slippery surfaces and tight spaces. Installing grab bars next to the toilet and shower area can provide extra support and stability when standing up, sitting down or getting in/out of the shower/tub. The use of non-slip mats on wet floors also helps prevent falls from occurring.
When considering modifications, you may consult with professionals like those found in senior living communities who specialize in improving accessibility within the house.
2. Lighting Upgrades
Seniors often experience deteriorating vision as they age, and poorly lit areas can obscure tripping hazards. Brightening dimly-lit areas around your home minimizes the chances of accidents by making obstacles clear.
To do this you could opt for brighter bulbs or install motion-detection lights that automatically turn on when someone enters specific rooms. Where necessary, you might seek assistance from an electrician for efficient wiring.
3. SMART Home Technology
Incorporating new technology into everyday life has driven innovation beyond convenience. Building monitoring systems will make household appliances manageable from one application. Local fire departments also offer programs through which smoke detectors are connected directly via Wifi.
With temperature regulators, SMART home devices feature auto-adjustments; there is less need for frequent manual adjustments, thus reducing accident risks.
4. Handrails & Ramps
Uneven pavements, difficulties reaching elevated objects, a steep flight of stairs, thresholds between different floor heights, and long hallways are particular cases where handrails and ramps come in handy.
Along with preventing falls, they offer independence by reducing the need for constant movement assistance. Just like the bathroom modifications, having such upgrades done may require assessing your home with an expert.
5. Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Approximately 400 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning. The gas is odorless, colorless, and tasteless, making it difficult to detect through human senses. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms should be installed at various locations throughout your property, such as close to furnace rooms, basements, garages and sleeping areas.
Regular testing ensures optimal functionality. Furthermore, battery-operated or hard-wired smoke detectors maintain reliable operation despite a power outage.
Final Thoughts
As we get older, our needs shift, presenting new risks which call for innovative solutions. Consequently, it’s important that senior citizens take measures to ensure continued safety inside their homes. Modifications such as those discussed above not only help prevent injuries but also alleviate anxiety in seniors, family members or caregivers.
Ensuring regular professional maintenance of these systems after installation can minimize service disruptions. With efforts towards making appropriate adjustments, daily living remains comfortable and quality of life improves!
