We all need a little help from time to time, and as our parents age, they might need a little extra help around the house. While everyone wants to keep their independence, your parents must have a safe environment to live in, and these little tips will help them achieve that.
Here are five ways to help your elderly parents feel more comfortable at home.
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Be Mindful of Trip Hazards
Moving around the house can become much more challenging as you age, and trip hazards become much more of a problem. One way you can make your elderly parents’ house easier to navigate is by removing trip hazards.
Items such as loose rugs might look good, but they can easily cause a slip, which can be dangerous. It is worth keeping an eye out for trip hazards, as they can become a big problem as people age.
Make it Easy to Sit Down and Stand Up
With decreased mobility, it becomes much more difficult to sit down and stand up. If your parents’ furniture is too low, then this could become a problem.
If your parents are struggling to get in and out of things like chairs, then it might be time to look at some new furniture. Chairs with adjustable heights can be particularly useful, as they mean people can get in and out of them with less bending.
We all stand up and sit down many times a day, and it can be extremely frustrating if you’re struggling to do so.
The Little Extras
There are lots of small details that can help make your elderly parents’ lives easier.
For example, older people are more likely to have problems swallowing, and certain liquids can become challenging to drink. However, there are solutions to these problems, and items such as Simply Thick food thickener can make day to day life that much easier.
There are many little ways you can make life easier for your parents, so keep communicating with them, and you’re sure to find convenient answers to their problems.
Think About the Stairs
For many older adults,it’s vital to be able to continue to use the stairs. However, as mobility deteriorates, this can become more and more difficult.
While you have options such as converting a downstairs room into a bedroom, another great option is a stairlift. A simple installation can ensure your parents still have access to the whole of their house, offering them a greater level of independence.
Keep Things Well Lit
Poor lighting can lead to accidents, so it’s great to be able to be on hand to help out with changing lightbulbs.
Lightbulbs can be difficult enough to change even when you don’t have mobility problems, so it’s easy to see why older people might not be quick to change them. However, dimly lit corridors and rooms are a hazard, and it’s something you can help them keep on top of.
