Tips for CareGIVERS to Help People Aging In Place

How to Provide the Best Care for Seniors Aging in Place

As we age we don’t think of the term “aging in place”, we just want to live in our homes. However, as people age they may face health issues that make living alone in their homes an unsafe situation. Families are faced with the dilemma of a senior family member wanting to continue to live alone in their homes, but health and safety issues make this dangerous. Living in a care facility may not be the best option for some seniors. In these cases, aging in place with the assistance of home health care services can be a great alternative. Advantage Home Care specializes in home health care services to help seniors live independently, comfortably, and safely in their own homes. This post will explore some practical tips to help seniors age in place by modifying their living space, building a support system, and ensuring their well-being.

Caregiver Tips Create a Safe Environment for Aging in Place

Family members and caregivers can take steps to make the home a safe and accessible haven for aging in place. Tips for caregivers include establishing a routine, being patient and understanding, keeping good records, and being aware of available health care services. However, it’s essential to ensure that you create a safe home environment. Follow these home safety tweaks to help your senior thrive in their familiar surroundings.

Conduct a Home Safety Assessment

Start by conducting a thorough home safety assessment. Look for potential hazards and areas that could be improved for safety and accessibility. Common areas to check include:

- Lighting: Ensure all areas, especially stairways, hallways, and entrances, are well-lit. Consider adding nightlights in bedrooms and bathrooms.
- Floors: Remove throw rugs or secure them with non-slip backing. Ensure all carpets and flooring are even to prevent tripping.
- Stairs: Install sturdy handrails on both sides of the staircase. Consider adding non-slip treads or carpet runners. Install ramps in place of steps at entrances.
- Modify the Bathroom: The bathroom is a high-risk area for falls. Simple modifications can make a significant difference.
  - Grab Bars: Install grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub.
  - Non-Slip Mats: Use non-slip mats in and around the shower or bathtub.
  - Shower Chairs and Handheld Showerheads: A shower chair provides stability, and a handheld showerhead allows for easier bathing.
  - Raised Toilet Seats: Consider a raised toilet seat to reduce the effort required to sit and stand.
- Doorways: Assess if doorways can accommodate walkers or wheelchairs. Replace doorknobs with lever handles for easier opening.
- Enhance Kitchen Accessibility: Making a kitchen more accessible for seniors aging in place involves thoughtful modifications to improve safety, convenience, and usability
  - Cabinets and Shelving: Place frequently used items in lower cabinets or drawers to avoid reaching or bending. Install pull-out shelves or lazy Susans for easier access.
  - Refrigerator Organization: Use clear bins and labels to organize refrigerator contents, making it easier to find items. Consider a refrigerator with a bottom freezer for easier access.
  - Clear and Open Counter Space: Keep counters uncluttered to provide ample workspace. Utilize under-cabinet storage or wall-mounted racks for commonly used utensils and tools.
  - Non-Slip Flooring: Install non-slip mats or rugs in front of the sink and stove to prevent slips and falls. Consider non-slip flooring materials like vinyl or cork.
- Enhance Emergency Preparedness: Being prepared for emergencies is crucial for seniors living alone:
  - Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts by each phone.
  - Medical Information Kit : Get a carrying case to hold medical information for emergencies and doctor visits. Include personal identification, emergency contacts, physician contact info, copies of health insurance cards, list of medications, medical history, and allergy information,
  - Fire Safety: Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functioning. Have a fire extinguisher readily available and ensure the senior knows how to use it.
  - Medical Alert Systems: Consider a medical alert system that can summon help with the push of a button.

Simplify Navigation and Assess and Address Fall Hazards

Falls are a major concern for seniors. Make it easy for seniors to navigate their home safely. Conduct a thorough walk through of the home, looking for potential hazards. This is something you may need to do on every visit.

Clear Pathways: Keep hallways and pathways clear of clutter and obstacles.
Prioritize Visibility: Good lighting is essential for safety. Install brighter bulbs throughout the house and consider nightlights in hallways and bedrooms. Ensure proper outdoor lighting for safe entry and exit after dark.
Furniture Arrangement: Arrange furniture to allow easy movement and ensure it’s stable and supportive.
Labels and Signs: Use clear labels and signs to help with memory issues, such as labeling drawers and cabinets.
Uneven flooring: Secure loose rugs and carpets or remove them entirely.
Poor lighting: Install brighter bulbs in frequently used areas, especially hallways, bathrooms, and stairwells. Consider nightlights for nighttime navigation.
Slippery surfaces: Add non-slip mats in the bathtub, shower, and outside the entrance in case of wet weather.
Clutter: Eliminate clutter in walkways and around furniture to prevent tripping.