Hello World! Welcome Friends! Did you know that most seniors want to remain in their own homes as they age? That being said, many of them aren’t aware that doing so can be dangerous. Many people, if unable to remain in their own homes, would then like to stay with family as long as possible. Whether you happen to be an aging individual or a family caregiver, here’s a quick look at a few ways to make your home a bit less dangerous.
Lighting
Ample and proper light is critical when it comes to ensuring a safe home. Whether you’re coming home from post-surgical rehab or just getting a bit more unsteady on your feet, it’s always a good thing to be able to see where you’re going and whether there are any obstacles in your way. Try using LED bulbs because they give you light of the best quality, are energy-efficient, and durable. The brightest is always best, but if you prefer, you might choose bulbs in softer colors. Motion-activated lights are also a good idea so that you have no need to fumble around in the dark trying to find a switch to turn on the light.
Grab Bars
When it comes to designing a bathroom that’ll be safe for everyone in the home, grab bars are essential. They should always be installed inside the shower or bath as well as on the walls just outside, and around the toilet itself. The more traditional grab bars do well for those who don’t see them as being a bit overly utilitarian. However, there are countless designs of these bars and with a little looking, you’re sure to find a style that will suit you just fine. They come in a variety of materials, designs, and shapes that enhance your décor while they provide an added bit of security.
Stairs
You may not be aware of this, but stairs can be even more dangerous than a rug. Thankfully, there are things that can cut your risk of falling down the stairs. For example, if your stairs have runners, make sure they have only a low pile. You might also check into replacing the runner with stair treads – individual pads made for each step. These are available in a vast array of materials and patterns, from vinyl to wool, and can either be nailed directly to each step or will have a non-slip type material on the back of them. Another good idea is to add a strip of reflective tape to the edge of each one of the steps so you can see them in the dark.
Water Temperature
To avoid being scalded in the shower unintentionally, it’s critical to monitor your water temperature. The first step to making sure you don’t get burned by the heat of the water is to ensure that you never set your water heater to a temp higher than 120°F. You might also consider putting a thermostatic valve right in the shower. That is a device that ensures the water remains a constant temperature simply by adjusting it to changes in the pressure. It’s particularly good for people who enjoy using both a handheld showerhead and one that’s static allowing you to change from one option to the other without having to worry about temperature change when you do.
Being safe can never happen too early. You don’t want to wait until you have a bad fall or burn before you realize you need to make your home safer.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
What You Should Know About Seamless Gutters
Which Tile Type Is Best For Your Roof?
The Perfect Outdoor Barbecue Party
Ways that you are Attracting Pests To Your Home
I’d love for you to join my email list! You’ll receive a notification straight to your inbox which will include links to my latest home project posts! Simply enter your address below.
Thanks for stopping by! Have a wonderful day/night depending on where you are in the world! Go with God and remember to be kind to one another!
Toodles,
[…] Precautions to Take at Home When Aging in Place […]