1. Install anti-slip mats
Falls are the number one cause of injury for older people.
Therefore, an easy way to make a home safer is to ensure that there are no slippery spots in the kitchen or bathroom that could lead to an accident.
As well as fixing leaks, you can easily alleviate this problem by installing some non-slip mats in rooms where there is water.
Slippery floors can be very harmful to the elderly and non-slip mats in baths and showers or by sinks can do the trick.
Purchase some non-slip mats to make potentially slippery areas safer.
2. Improve lighting
Another way to avoid falls?
Make sure the house is well-lit, but not brightly lit.
If a room is too dark, your loved one could trip over objects. And if the area is too bright, glare may prevent them from seeing their surroundings.
Install as many night lights and lamps as needed to create a well-lit room. And ensure that all passages - especially stairs - are well lit to help mitigate the risk of falls.
To reduce energy use, consider using things like sensor light switches and LED bulbs.
3. Reduce clutter
Another way to ensure older people don't fall?
By reducing clutter on floors, in entryways and in the yard.
Simply tidying up bedrooms, wardrobes and spaces such as living and dining rooms can make mobility easier, while also eliminating common trip hazards.
And, if they use a wheelchair, removing carpets or other floor hazards will also make things easier.
As well as furniture, carpets and clutter, another common tripping hazard is electrical cords. Be sure that these cords are tucked neatly away from where people walk.
Consider using cable clips to route any wires along walls or under carpets to prevent them from tripping over your loved ones.
4. Install handrail bars
Handrails are another essential item you'll want to consider adding when it comes to stability and ease of movement throughout your home.
Install grab bars around showers, baths and toilets.
Please note that grab bars must be installed correctly on the studs of the walls, not just the drywall.
Improperly installed grab bars are very dangerous as they will not hold the weight and will easily pull off the wall.
Also, most handrails stick out a few inches and should be installed away from doors, windows and other high traffic areas.
Get a few stainless steel handrails to make the transition around the house easier.
5. Get financial help
Upgrades can be expensive, especially if you need thousands of dollars worth of work done. Fortunately, there are government programs that can ease the cost burden.
The US Department of Agriculture has a grant called the Very Low Income Housing Repair Program that has great potential for seniors to help cover the cost of critical home repairs.
Another option available through the federal government is the Section 504 Home Repair Program offered by the USDA Office of Rural Development, a loan and grant program that provides low-income homeowners with up to 20 years of loan repayment to make necessary home repairs and accessibility improvements.
Your area may also have a specific national program, so check with your local Area Agency on Aging to see what programs may be available.
Seniors may also be eligible for tax relief for any home modifications they make to age in place.
