10 Easy Ways I Helped Safety-Proof My Grandparents’ Home Life
Over the last five years, my family and I have taken on an enormous task: fully outfitting my grandparents’ home to allow them to age in place and live as risk free as possible. Aunts, uncles, kids, grandkids, cousins, and friends all played a role in making their home suitable for aging in place. However, we made changes after adverse events like falls. The 10 easy ways I outline below (along with some honest first-hands stories) are what you can do before adverse events occur.
A quick note: All 10 of these precautions and over 100 more are part of our Smart Home Safety Outfitting service we offer to our clients (we call them members) in need. Please go to our Service Plans to read more about what we do every day to mitigate risk in our members’ home lives.
Same family in the same home - Different years with different needs
When it comes to ensuring the safety and comfort of our elderly loved ones, even small modifications in their living environment can make a significant difference. Here are 10 easy ways we safety-proofed my grandparents’ home, backed by reputable sources, and a reference to Harbin Home Outfitters' Safety Plan, which provides a holistic approach to enhancing home safety for seniors:
Install Handrails by Stairs:
Handrails aid in preventing stair-related accidents which could lead to severe injuries requiring hospitalization or physical therapy, especially among the elderly.
They provide stability, crucial for those with mobility issues, balance issues, or muscle weakness.
Handrails can also reduce the physical care burden of caregivers, aiding the elderly in adjusting to disability and illness.
“Grandma and Papa’s home had four level changes. My family turned three of those into ramps with handrails and added padding, handrails and stability to the only remaining staircase.”
Install Handrails in the Bathroom:
Toilet safety rails enhance stability and independence, allowing seniors to perform everyday tasks without assistance, and reducing the risk of falls or slips in the bathroom.
They can minimize fall hazards for those with mobility issues, those with balance difficulties, or those recovering from an illness.
“These saved my grandad from taking so many falls. Now, after his passing, my grandmother uses them everyday as she lives safely alone.”
Consider Switching to Automatic Recliners / Assistive Furniture:
Automatic recliners improve mobility by assisting seniors from a seated to standing position at the push of a button, aiding those with mobility issues. They promote good posture and improve blood circulation by allowing frequent changes in sitting positions and leg elevation.
Throw Away the Throw Rugs for Non-Slip Mats:
Replacing throw rugs with non-slip mats can prevent falls and make areas like bathrooms safer for seniors.
Studies show that hazardous rugs and carpets are common environmental hazards in the homes of older adults.
“I hear the phrase often, “Throw rugs throw you to the ground.” It’s the truth. Throw those things away.”
Hide the Cords:
Hiding electrical cords reduces clutter and enhances mobility within the living area, preventing tripping hazards.
It also minimizes fire and shock hazards associated with damaged cords under furniture or carpeting.
Bring a Two-Way Radio or Cell Phone When Going Outside:
Having a communication device ensures that help is just a call away in case of emergencies, promoting independence while ensuring safety.
“We taped a bell and two-way radio to my grandad’s walker so he could continue to go outside and walk around his yard. This encouraged his independence even in his limited state, increased the amount of time ambulating daily, and kept track of his location in case of emergency. “
Install Ramps With Grip Tape:
Ramps with grip tape provide a safer and more accessible entry and exit, especially beneficial for seniors with mobility challenges.
Place Reminders Throughout the Home:
Visual or audio reminders aid in ensuring that critical tasks are not forgotten, promoting a safer living environment.
“It is important to change these out and slightly move them often. People become accustomed to seeing signs in the same place and therefore might overlook them. Smart home devices like Amazon Alexa’s, Apple HomePods, and even more specific devices like stovetop sensors can aid in this.”
Install Brighter Lights:
Improved lighting reduces the risk of tripping or falling, especially in high-traffic areas, stairways, and during the night.
Wear Senior Alert Devices:
Emergency response systems like Life Alert provide immediate assistance in case of falls or other emergencies, a crucial safety net for seniors living alone.
“We bought these for both of my grandparents. It’s important to note that these devices need to be within reach and may need reminders around the home to use them.”
By incorporating these measures, we were able to create a safer and more comfortable living space for my grandparents. Similarly, services like the Safety Plan from Harbin Home Outfitters provide a comprehensive approach to home safety, offering daily automated chores, appointment and transportation coordination, property-wide smart safety outfitting, and much more, tailored to the unique needs of each household.