Home interior design changes to help the elderly stay safe

With people living longer, it is only logical to make adaptions to the homes of seniors to make them more senior-friendly, to minimize the risk of an accident.  Many children in their 50’s are finding themselves in a predicament of worrying about their aging parents, and their living situations. Many seniors can live independently without being in an assisted living facility or needing round-the-clock care; however, living alone comes with many health and mobility issues.

When it comes to home safety for the elderly, even objects used every day can transform into a safety hazard. As people age, the risk of falling increases. Around one-third of falls for the elderly involve dangers around the house. While the risk of falling cannot be entirely eradicated, there are several cautionary steps the children of the seniors should take to make the home safer for their loved ones.

Children in their 50’s and 60’s have busy lives of their own. With their own work, children, and numerous other responsibilities, they may not have the time to visit their parents as often as they want. Falling is not a normal part of aging even though many believe this they are mistaken.   With the proper knowledge of potential dangers and hazards that are around the house for the elderly, safety can be improved in the home. Providing peace of mind for adult children and their elderly parents.

Here are some interior design tips that can help the elderly.

20% of the population is elderly and it is the job of designers to make the home a comfortable and safe environment.

Smart Furniture

• Furniture should be easy to lean on and placed in a convenient spot.
• Avoid furniture that has sharp ends.
• Select double-rub furniture fabrics with a thread count of 30,000 for added durability and comfort.
• Choose a round table with a solid top and not glass.

Smart Kitchen

• Place frequently used items in waist-high cabinetry. This eliminates the need to reach high or bend low-which reduces the risk of falling.
• Drawer pulls are easier to grip than knobs.
• Ranges with control at the front.
• Level-handed faucets and varied counter heights.
• Drawer-style appliances, such as dishwashers.
• The recemented amount of floor space in front of each appliance is 30″-48″ for universal accessibility.

Safe walking

• Avoid using scatter rugs- It’s easy to slip and fall. This helps prevent an accident.
• Tuck electrical cords behind furniture.
• The recommended height for light switches is from 44″ to 48″ inches.

Sharper Vision

• Create a strong color contrast between major pieces of furniture, walls, and floors.
• Darker color bathroom walls allow seniors to easily see the white toilet and sink.
• Color also affects mood. Soft pinks and greens can help you feel at peace, while red and orange can improve energy levels.
• Use nightlights or motion sensor lights to help with nighttime navigation.

Safe Bathrooms

• Grab bars.
• Handheld showerheads.
• Benches or fold-down shower seats.
• Off-center, easy-to-reach shower controls.
• Non-slip flooring
• Roll-in or curb-less showers

Small changes and adaptions in the home can make a dramatic difference to someone who is feeling a little less sure of their environment.