Modifying homes to make them safer and more accessible allows elders to stay in their homes while they age. Most Americans prefer to remain in their homes as opposed to an assisted living facility. If you’re looking into ways to make your senior’s home safer for them as they age, consider these home modification options.
Railings
It can be easy for seniors to lose balance going up and down the stairs. Stairways are often narrow, and without proper support, it’s possible for seniors to fall down the stairs. No matter if your senior regularly uses an indoor or outdoor staircase, they can benefit from having railings installed. Be sure to install ADA-compliant railings to ensure that your senior has the support they need to go up and down the stairs safely.
Stairlifts
For seniors who rely on wheelchairs, or those who want a safer way to go up and downstairs, installing stairlifts is a good solution. Stairlifts allow users to go up and down stairs independently and without hassle. They’re a great way to prevent slips and falls. No matter if you have a straight or curved staircase, a stairlift can help give your senior the independence they want. Lastly, installing a stairlift can be more affordable than you think.
Grab Bars
Similar to railings, grab bars give seniors the stability they need throughout the house. Grab bars are ideal for two things: an added safety feature and a way to ease the physical strain on the lower body. Place grab bars throughout your senior’s home to help them get around easier. Some of the most common places where people install grab bars are:
- Close to the toilet
- Outside the shower
- Inside the shower
- Inside the tub
- Hallways
Wheelchair Ramps
Even if your senior doesn’t rely on a wheelchair to get around, they can still benefit from a wheelchair ramp. That is because instead of having to lift their feet to go upstairs, seniors can simply walk upstairs gradually with ease. Threshold ramps are great for indoors, and modular ramps are great for outdoors. For seniors who do use a wheelchair, they can benefit from a portable ramp. Talk to a certified Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) about the best ramp for your senior’s home.
The Home Mobility Solutions Your Senior Needs
Freedom Mobility is proud to offer a variety of home modification equipment for seniors. From grab bars to stairlifts, we have the equipment your senior needs to stay healthy and safe at home. Contact us now to request an in-home consultation.