5 Tips for Designing the Perfect Granny Flat
Collaborative Post
Installing a granny flat on your property is an increasingly popular choice for those looking to ensure that their elderly relatives are close enough to receive care when needed, but still retain the independence of living alone.
If you want to provide a place to move your elderly loved ones into, then here are five tips for designing an excellent new home that will not only meet their needs, but that they will love.
Accessible design
Ensuring that your granny flat is accessible for your relatives to move around independently is essential for preserving their dignity and sense of self.
From stairlifts to railings and ramps to walk-in baths, home adaptations are often an essential feature. However they aren’t always cheap. Luckily, depending on your individual circumstances, you may qualify for funding.
On the government website you can the contact details of your local council so you can take the first steps to funding renovations.
Make it look nice
Just because a design is functional doesn’t mean it can’t be stylish too.
Create a home for your relatives by investing in furniture that will make them feel welcome.
With furniture companies such as Rockett St George, you kit out your granny flat with luxury and quirky items that will give your interior design some character.
Avoid any hazards
A bad fall can do a lot of damage, so it’s important to do what you can to avoid any trip hazards.
Of course, it’s impossible to account for everything, but there are a few things you can do to make your granny flat safer.
For example, if you have rugs on the floor, consider placing anti-slip underlays beneath them. This way you’ll help to reduce the chance of the rug slipping out from under your relatives’ feet.
Ensure your own space
Ensuring that your relative has their own space and privacy is essential for helping them retain their independence.
While this isn’t possible in every granny flat set up, try to design your addition so that it has its own entrance.
And remember, while you should have access in case of emergencies, you should respect the fact that the granny flat is their home, and you should avoid making unannounced visits.
Prepare for potential emergencies
While no one wants an emergency to occur, it’s important that you have a plan in place.
Something as simple as a personal alarm can give you and your relative peace of mind that you will be alerted should anything happen.
These alarms come in a variety of forms, including the popular care alarms from Taking Care. These alarms are wearable and offer a 24-hour response should your relative have a fall.
This way your elderly relative will be able to go about their day independently, knowing that should they have a fall, they’ll be able to seek help straight away.
Photo by taylor hernandez on Unsplash
