Aging in place means more than just living in your home – it means having the ability to do so safely, independently, and comfortably as you get older. For many seniors, it is a goal to live in familiar surroundings and age in place for as long as possible. However, this can be cause for concern for family members, as the health and safety of an aging loved on is a top priority.
Here are some tips for aging in place safely and signs that it might be time to explore long-term senior living.
Add bathroom safety.
Bathrooms can pose significant risks for older adults. Make necessary changes by installing grab bars in the shower and near the toilet. Consider adding a walk-in shower to minimize the risk of falls. Adding a seat to the shower and non-slip mats on floors are essential for preventing serious injuries.
Install more lighting.
It’s not uncommon for eyesight to diminish with age, which makes having adequate lighting in the home essential. Ensure that all areas of the home are well-lit, especially hallways, staircases, and bathrooms.
Reduce clutter.
If your loved one has trouble with balance or is experiencing poor vision, there should be a clear path in the home at all times. Scan the home for tripping hazards and declutter living spaces. This can include securing loose rugs with non-slip backing, fastening electrical cords, and rearranging furniture to reduce the risk of slips and falls.
Consider smart home technology.
A great way to enhance safety in your loved one’s house is to embrace smart home technology. A few examples include:
- Motion sensor lights to illuminate hallways and entryways.
- Emergency response systems, like wearable devices or voice-activated home assistants, can alert medical care for falls, injuries, or other serious emergencies.
- Remote access to the thermostat, television, lighting, and other systems around the home gives older adults additional independence.
- Smart locks and security systems provide seniors a sense of safety and can also be used to monitor when your loved one leaves or enters the home.
Improve medication management.
Falls aren’t the only safety concern in a senior’s home. Older adults who forget to take their medication or double up on doses are in danger of having life-threatening reactions. Use automatic pill dispensers to reduce your loved one’s risk. It can also be helpful to appoint a caregiver to oversee the medication schedule to make sure your loved one is following their treatment plan.
Protect against fires and poison.
Install a smoke detector in the home and replace the battery twice a year. Similarly, make sure there is a working carbon monoxide detector near the bedroom, and be sure to test and replace the battery two times a year.
Is it time for senior living?
Prioritizing home safety allows seniors to age gracefully and enjoy their homes with peace of mind, knowing they have taken proactive steps to reduce the risk of injuries and create a safe living environment. However, there may come a time that family members no longer feel comfortable with their loved one’s ability to live at home alone; a senior living community may be the perfect solution.
Whether they are falling more, forgetting to take their medications, or having trouble preparing meals, the decision to transition your senior parent or loved one to long-term senior living can be overwhelming and stressful. Rest assured that today’s senior living communities are designed with your loved one’s safety, comfort, and quality of life in mind.
To find the right place for your loved one, start touring communities sooner rather than later. Should the time come that your elderly parent can no longer live at home alone, you will be prepared to make the transition to a senior living community as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Legacy Assisted Living is a premier senior living community in Pewaukee, WI. Schedule a tour today and learn more about our services, amenities, and relaxed lifestyle here in small-town Wisconsin!
