Make Your Home Safe Again!

By Maggie Drag

As we age, we often forget that our homes should age with us! As more and more people aged 65 and older (90 percent according to AARP to be exact), choose to stay in their homes, many don’t follow the proper steps to make their homes safer.

Just a few updates will prevent falls and tragic accidents down the road, so take a look at our list of tips on how to make your living space safer, comfortable and convenient for life!

Stop trips for good

• The number one cause of trips in homes are slippery throw rugs, so make sure to make each rug slip proof with sticky pads or slip-proof tape.
• If you have hardwood or tile floors, make sure that the surface isn’t too slippery. Either use slip-proof flooring or apply slip-proof coatings.
• Try installing longer power cords for your electronics, lamps and appliances that you can tuck along a wall to avoid trips in the future.
• Many homes have thresholds, a small raised edge, between two doors. This can cause trips and make it difficult for those in wheelchairs and walkers. Remove barriers like this with automatic door bottoms that act like special bridges that move across a difficult edge or barrier between doors, different rooms and other surfaces.

Make Cooking Comfortable

If you have always enjoyed cooking for your family but have a hard time reaching your countertops or standing by a counter preparing a great meal, try some of these fool-proof kitchen hacks:

• Install a new workspace such as a rolling kitchen island that will allow you to work while seated. Usually the ideal height should be 36 inches off the floor.
• If you have trouble reaching your faucet or would like to add some mobility to help you clean up and prepare foods, install a faucet with an extension that you can easily pull out when needed.
• Try replacing the knobs on your faucet with an easy-to-use lever handle that doesn’t require too much of a grip. There are special faucets that turn on with the tap of your hand that help those with arthritis in their hands
• Many ovens today are designed with side-hinge doors that can make your life easier when baking. If you are in a wheelchair, have it installed at a more comfortable height. Eliminate hunching down to get dinner in the oven!

Bathroom Basics

Thanks to increased awareness, converting your existing bathtub to a walk-in tub is a popular option that has become much more affordable. Also consider installing a shower that’s level with the floor and big enough to take your walker inside.

• Don’t forget to add a slip-proof seat or chair to shower comfortably!
• Because bathroom tiles are notorious for causing slips and falls, especially when the floor becomes even a little wet, be sure to install bath mats that are both absorbent and slip proof.
• If you choose to ever replace the tile or flooring in your bathroom, make sure that you consider those with a non-slip finish.

Get Outside Again

• Make your life easier by replacing your stoop or stairway and installing a ramp by doorways that lead outside.
• Install a wide path through grassy areas to prevent falls and make your yard and garden more accessible.
• The best path option for wheelchairs should be at least 4 feet wide. Try going for concrete or large paver stones.

Let the be Light

• Install light fixtures in places that can be difficult to navigate, like the entrance to your basement, a steep stairwell and pathways outside.
• Because bulbs can burn out, try replacing single-bulb fixtures with multiple bulb fixtures to make sure you’re not left in the dark.

Getting Help

• If you have any questions about making your home safer, call a specialist first before attempting to do the work on your own.
• Look up “Certified Aging in Place Specialists” on the National Association of Home Builders website at www.nahb.org , and visit www.ageinplace.org for more tips and advice for disabled homeowners.
• Other Sources:
  • http://www.ageinplace.org/
  • www.nahb.org

About the author

Maggie Drag is an owner and founder of a homecare agency in central Connecticut. With over 27 years of experience in the industry, Maggie shares her knowledge and tips about care at home.  Visit homecare4u.com to learn more about Maggie Drag.