For many people, the idea of their elderly relatives coming to live with them can be a daunting one. Not only is there the emotional aspect of having a person you care about living in your home, but there’s also the practical side: making sure your home is safe and accessible for everyone involved. You want to make sure that it’s comfortable and suitable for your elderly relative while still being able to manage any risks that may come along with aging at home. 

Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to make sure your home is as accessible as possible for an elderly relative. These steps range from simple modifications like installing grab bars or handrails around the house, all the way up to larger renovations such as widening doors or adding ramps. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the various options available to you and how best to make your home more accessible for your elderly relative. 

Consider Your Elderly Relative’s Current Needs

The first step in making your home more accessible is to consider what modifications may be necessary for your elderly relative’s current needs. Are they having difficulty getting around? Do they need additional handrails to steady themselves? Are any physical limitations requiring additional accommodations, such as widened doorways or wheelchair access? By considering their individual needs, you can ensure that the adjustments you make are tailored specifically toward them, rather than investing money in unnecessary modifications. 

Invest in Mobility Aids

Making your home more accessible for elderly relatives isn’t just about convenience – it can often be a matter of safety too. Investing in mobility aids is an excellent way to ensure your loved one can move around the house easily and comfortably, reducing the risk of accidents or falls. 

Stairlifts are a great purchase if you have staircases in your home. They allow elderly people to ascend and descend staircases without fear or hesitation, making them feel more secure navigating their environment. If you need to add a stairlift as a temporary home feature, try searching “stairlift rental near me” online to check out manufacturers and compare prices. It’s important to look into different models and features to find the best option for your needs. 

Another efficient mobility aid that can be utilized in the home is a wheelchair ramp. These are especially beneficial for those with limited mobility or difficulty walking, as they eliminate any steps and provide safe access to areas of the house that may have been previously inaccessible. Furthermore, installing handrails around stairways and hallways is also helpful for providing elderly people with extra support when getting around. 

People who struggle with balance can benefit from purchasing a cane or walker. This equipment offers added stability and makes it easier for them to maneuver their way through tight spaces and up the stairs. If you want to ensure your loved one is comfortable using these items, consider ordering custom-made handles that fit easily into their hands. 

Make Small Modifications Around the Home

Once you’ve identified what kind of adjustments need to be made, it’s time to start making them. One of the most important aspects of creating an accessible home is placing strong handrails and grab bars around the house. This can help your elderly relative maintain their balance while walking up and down stairs and provide support when they’re getting into or out of a bathtub or shower. Additionally, non-slip surfaces such as carpets, rugs, and mats are also essential in preventing falls in areas with hardwood or tile floors. 

Make Larger Home Modifications 

For some individuals, larger home modifications may be necessary to create an accessible living environment. This could include widening doorways and hallways to allow wheelchair access, installing ramps to make exterior steps easier to navigate, or even building a first-floor bedroom if climbing stairs has become too difficult. Suppose you’re considering making larger modifications such as these. In that case, it’s best to consult with an architect or contractor who can offer advice and guidance on what modifications would suit your home and your elderly relative’s needs. 

Take Proactive Measures

When creating an accessible environment for an elderly relative, it’s important not to forget about the little things that can make life easier. This could include adding additional lighting throughout the home to prevent falls, providing emergency call buttons so your elderly relative can contact family members in an emergency, or simply installing easier-to-use door handles and locks. These small adjustments can make a huge difference in how your elderly relative can move around the home, helping them remain as independent as possible for longer. 

Making sure your home is accessible for an elderly relative doesn’t have to be a difficult process – with the right knowledge and modifications, you can create a safe and comfortable environment that will help them remain independent for as long as possible. By following the steps outlined above, you should be well on your way to making sure your home is properly modified for their needs.