Making Senior Homes More Ergonomically Friendly
July 31, 2024
There is often a lot of discussion about how to make seniors’ homes safer, especially when they choose to age in place. However, there should also be a focus on ensuring the home is ergonomically friendly, which can increase mobility and improve general well-being, as well as improve the safety measures already put in place. With senior home care and loved one’s support, modifications can be made to ensure the home works for seniors, regardless of what may come their way.
Accessible Doors
Wheelchair users and walkers can be accommodated by installing ramps at entryways. In doing so, it’s important to pay attention to the materials used. For instance, ramps should be set at an appropriate angle, meaning they should not be too steep. Also, they should have a non-slip surface. Additionally, lever-style handles should be used as an alternative to typical door knobs to make opening and closing doors simpler for people with arthritis or weak hands.
Enhanced Living Areas
Appropriate furniture placement facilitates easier mobility and lowers the chance of accidents and falls. Senior home care can work with seniors and loved ones to ensure paths are clear and rooms are easy to enter and exit. Also, when it comes to making the living area more ergonomically friendly, furniture with firm cushions, armrests, and appropriate seat height is key.
Ergonomic Kitchen
Pull-out shelves or adjustable counters in the kitchen can minimize bending and reaching. Also, it’s important to put commonly used goods at waist height. Additionally, for easy access to other items, loved ones might consider adding lazy Susans. Another thing to consider is replacing knobs on cabinets with D-shaped handles and using pull-out spray nozzle faucets, as well as level-style faucets for seniors who struggle with gripping or arthritis.
Improved Accessibility in Bathrooms
Beyond installing grab bars and ensuring the bathroom has non-slip surfaces, adding an elevated toilet seat can make it easier for seniors to get up and down. Also, if possible, loved ones might consider redoing the bathroom to include a walk-in bathtub or a shower with a built-in chair.
Better Rest and Relaxation
To improve accessibility in the bedroom, it might be a good idea to use bed risers or lower frames to modify the height as necessary to make sure seniors can get in and out of the bed comfortably. Also, make sure to place nightlights or motion lights in the rooms so they can easily navigate at night when needing to use the bathroom. Finally, investing in a supportive mattress that encourages proper posture and lowers their chance of developing back discomfort is also a good idea to consider.
Helpful Technology
There are many digital devices that can help seniors more comfortably age in place. Things like voice-activated lights, thermostats, and smart appliances are just a few of the ideas. Also, loved ones might want to talk with seniors about using a medical alert system as they get older.
No two seniors are the same, but all can benefit from having a more ergonomically friendly home. With senior home care and loved ones' support, seniors can have everything they need to safely and comfortably age in their homes.
If you or your loved one is looking for Senior Home Care in Campbell, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care.
Santa Clara County: (408) 979-9990
San Mateo County: (650) 353-9777
Santa Cruz County: (831) 480-3990