Preparing a Home for an Elderly Relative

Are you preparing to welcome an aged parent to your home? If your mother or father is moving into your home, you may need to make a few changes to ensure their safety and comfort. How far you go will be dictated by their level of mobility. In an ideal world, your parent will be fit and well, but if that was the case, they would probably still be living at home! So, chances are, some additions and alterations will be necessary.

Is Your Home Suitable?

Before making plans for a senior relative to move in, it’s important to be realistic about whether your home is suitable. If you live on the fourth floor of a block of flats and the lift is almost always out of action, this isn’t going to work. The same applies if your home is only accessible via steep steps or you simply don’t have enough space as it is.

In addition, consider the cost of making essential alternations, such as installing a walk-in shower or wet room (if required). This kind of project can be expensive, and although it will add value to your home, there is no point in booking contractors if you are already up to your neck in debt.

Bathroom Additions

Modern homes often come with separate showers, which are ideal for older residents. However, if the bathroom is on the first floor and your relative can’t manage stairs easily, you may need to think about adding a ground-floor shower room. If you have this covered, there are a few simple additions to an existing bathroom that will make life easier.

A grab rail adjacent to a toilet and one over a bath will help to prevent accidents. Consider buying a raised toilet seat so the toilet is not quite as low; beautifulbathroom.net has a selection of mobility equipment for bathrooms.

Flooring

Scatter rugs look great but they can be trip hazards for anyone unsteady on their feet. Remove rugs from the bedroom where your relative will be sleeping and consider removing them from hallways and living rooms. Carpet is less of a hazard than slippery laminate flooring, plus it is warmer underfoot. If you elect to fit a new carpet, go for a wool mix, as it will be more durable and resistant to spills.

The Bedroom

Anyone with mobility problems needs a ground-floor bedroom unless there is a stairlift. Buy a mattress protector if the person has incontinence issues. Make sure the bed is a suitable height. A grab rail nearby will make it easier for them to get in and out of bed.

Lamps that switch on and off via touch are a great idea for anyone with arthritis. Curtains are easier to use than fiddly blind cords. Ask your relative to choose their décor and bedding. Provide a comfortable chair and a TV so they can have their own space if needed.

Finally, if your relative doesn’t already have a personal alarm, organize this for them. That way, if you aren’t home and they have a fall, help is on hand.