When a senior citizen moves into an assisted living community or downsizes to a smaller space, it is a major adjustment for both them and their loved one. If a senior citizen lived independently in their own home for decades, moving can be extremely difficult.
It is important for loved ones to help senior citizens embrace these transitions, and an easy way to do so, is to help them make sure their new home is as safe for them as possible.
Focus on Bathroom
The bathroom is one place that senior citizens often fall. The bathroom floor is often wet from the shower or sink and it can easily get slippery. It is vital that you ensure that the bathroom is as senior-friendly as possible. Consider installing grab bars, shower mats, shower transport chairs, and so forth. We have a wide variety of bathroom safety products available. Although it is impossible to absolutely prevent bathroom falls, you can protect seniors from them.
Use Plenty of Lights
Many senior citizens have a hard time seeing, especially in the dark. It is important to provide senior citizens with plenty of light sources so they can safely maneuver around their new home. It will take them time to get comfortable with their new surroundings which can make it difficult for them to get around it here and there. Purchase some decorative night lights and place one in each. You should also make sure that each room has a light switch or lamp right near the entrance so seniors don’t need to walk through the room in order to see.
Shop for Safety
Many common furnishings that we might put in our home are not fitting for a senior citizen’s home. For example, a square coffee table can be extremely dangerous for seniors. Encourage your loved one to purchase round tables instead. If a senior falls, a table with a sharp edge can bruise them or even cut them if they fall hard enough. You should also make sure that all of your loved one’s belongings are stored somewhere that they can easily reach. It is dangerous for them to climb up on a stool or chair.
At BEK Medical, we believe that everyone deserves the ability to live a healthy, active lifestyle at any age, and our full selection of home medical equipment makes that possible.
