Aging in place can be challenging, as most houses aren’t equipped to meet elderly needs. Instead of moving them to a senior care facility, help your loved one make adjustments so that they can enjoy their golden years in their forever home. Here are a few ways you can make their living spaces more comfortable.

How to Help Your Senior Age in Place

1. Illuminate the Rooms

Sight diminishes with age, so many seniors have impaired vision. Install ample recessed lighting so that wheelchairs and walkers don’t get caught in floor lamp chords. You should also get switch plates that illuminate, so your senior can easily turn on the lights in the dark.

2. Add Grab Bars

Grab bars and railings are small, easy additions that offer a significant amount of convenience. Install them in the bathroom near the toilet, sink, and shower, as wet surfaces increase the risk of slips and falls. You can also place no-slip mats on the floor to enhance the room’s safety.

3. Replace the Shower & Toilet

Many elderly adults experience difficulty stepping in and out of the shower. Changing a conventional tub for a walk-in model will greatly reduce the risk of dangerous falls. You should also add a bench, as seniors may have difficulty standing in the shower comfortably.

Getting on and off the toilet can be challenging for people with waning muscle strength or mobility inhibitions. Install a taller fixture or one with a lifted seat designed for older adults.

4. Smart Home Tools

Get a home assistant device, so your elderly loved one can use their voice to turn on the TV, lights, and other electronics. Find a model that can be set to remind them about important events and tasks. You can also equip your loved one with a health alert system, so they can reach emergency responders or a senior care team during a time of need.

Although home improvements can make life easier for your elderly loved one, many benefit from the help of in-home senior care. The team at Compass Homecare in Anchorage, AK, will stay with your loved one throughout the day to ensure they always have the support they need. These professionals provide mobility assistance and companionship, helping people enjoy their golden years to the fullest. To get more information about their senior care services, visit the website or call (907) 276-6960.