Elder-Proof Your Home With These Modifications In Place

With life expectancy in Singapore averaging over 80, there is an increasing number of elderly persons who wish to age in the comfort of their own homes. Ageing in place is possible with the right elderly equipment to target the specific needs of the elderly so they can continue to feel safe and comfortable at home. Home modifications as well as assistive technologies can help seniors live independently and comfortably at home even as they age and avoid moving into a long-term care facility or nursing home. If you’re looking for ways to begin, these few, inexpensive modifications will make all the difference in the world to your loved ones. 

Ramps

As we age, physical abilities change and may even decline. This can make it difficult for the elderly to navigate their homes without worrying about falling. Installing ramps is a great way to make your home wheelchair accessible and protect elderly loved ones from falls, while at the same time ensuring that they can access every part of their home safely. There are also other non-permanent solutions for increasing safety for stairways such as anti-slip tape which are easy to install and will help prevent slipping on walking surfaces.

Wider doorways

For seniors who require the use of mobility aids to get around the house, doorways can be a big problem as they need to be wide enough for them to pass through with their mobility device. If these doorways are narrow or obstructed, they may have to ask for assistance every time they wish to move from one room to the next. This limits their ability to be independent, and can get burdensome in the long run for everyone involved. Remove obstruction and widen the doorways to make it easier for seniors to move throughout their homes. 

Bathroom modifications

Elderly people are at higher risk of falling and getting injured, especially in a slippery environment like the bathroom. A walk-in-shower provides a safer environment than a bathtub, where the individual is more susceptible to slipping and falling in the tub, or having trouble getting out of the tub once they are in it. Another modification you can make to your bathroom is adding grab bars to walls next to the shower or toilet. These are useful for older adults who may have difficulty getting up from a seated position on the toilet or standing up after sitting down on it.

Kitchen modifications

Elderly persons who have mobility issues often find it difficult to use their kitchens or perhaps their kitchen layout doesn't fit the way they live anymore. Countertops and cabinets are often too high or appliances too far away, especially if you’re in a wheelchair. This not only causes frustration, but may also lead to safety concerns in the kitchen. To accommodate these needs, some modifications you should consider making include lowering countertops, cabinets and drawers and repositioning electrical switches and outlets so they are easier to reach. These changes can go a long way towards helping your loved ones be more independent and safe in their home.

Conclusion

Ageing in place is possible only if we are willing to make changes to our home environment to ensure it is safe for our loved ones. The best part is that it is certainly achievable. The Golden Concepts is a one-stop medical supply centre that focuses on mitigating these issues as we introduce you to mobility equipmentand home modifications that will make everyday tasks easier. With our extensive range of home care products for elderly in Singapore such as adjustable hospital beds for home and wheelchairs with detachable footrests, we offer solutions to suit individual needs and help your elderly loved ones enjoy their golden years. Talk to us today to find out more!