Check out our list of simple adjustments to make daily activities more comfortable, reduce accidents, and support independent living.
According to the CDC, among adults age 64 and older, falls are the number one cause of injury, hospital visits due to trauma, and death from an injury. With more than half of all falls occurring in and around the home, small changes can make a large impact. Adapting your home to accommodate avoidable accidents doesn’t need to be complicated.
Prevent Tripping Hazards
- Arrange furniture in clear walking paths and remove clutter from each room.
- Create a secure area for the family pet as not to be underfoot.
- Place orange tape on changing floor surfaces to alert potential walking dangers.
- Secure throw rugs and electrical cords.
Enhance Lighting
- Light up dark areas with plug-in sensor lights.
- Install non-glare and non-reflective lighting where tasks are completed.
- Add nightlights in the bathroom.
- Install rocker switches, which can be turned on and off with the back of the hand or elbow.
- Add lamps in easy to reach areas, such as next to the bed.
Kitchen
- Reduce the chance to lose balance with shelves and under cabinet hooks.
- Install drawer organizers and pull-out shelving.
- Use lever or U-shaped pulls or handles.
- Reduce bending by placing heavier and frequently used items within easy reach.
- Utilize a stool for support while cooking.
- Create round corners on countertops.
- Install a faucet with a single-lever handle for easier handling.
Bathroom
- Install a comfort height toilet or raised toilet seat with grab bars.
- Create accessible storage for frequently used items.
- Locate clothes hooks slightly above eye level.
- Lower water temperature to 120 or below.
- Reduce slippery surfaces in the shower or bath with anti-skid strips.
- Upgrade to a hand-held shower hose.
- Install bench seating for support in the shower or bathtub with grab bars.
Living Room
- Lever door handles can be opened with the back of the hand or elbow.
- Utilize supportive furniture with armrests to make sitting and standing up easier.
- Change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.
Research shows the optimal way to reduce fall risks for aging adults at risk of falling includes medication management, physical activity, and home modification. As your care needs change, Wesley Homes offers a full network of supportive services you need to age-in-place. Leave the burdens of owning a home behind with maintenance-free living, including independent or assisted living apartments suited for aging adults, house cleaning services, lawn mowing, even changing a light bulb! Have peace of mind the Wesley Homes friendly staff is only a phone call away.