3 Tips for Preparing Your Home to Move in an Elderly Relative
Collaborative Post
As our loved ones get older, the time may come when they need more care than can be provided when living alone. If this is the case, you and your relative may come to the decision that the best option for you and your family is for them to move in.
This is a big life adjustment, and one that needs to be the right option for all parties. However, if this set up works best for you, then you’ll need to ensure that your home is suitable.
Making some changes to ensure that they can stay safe while they navigate your home is essential, so here are just three ways you can prepare to welcome your home to a parent, grandparent, or other loved one.
Avoid Slip Hazards
When we get older, slips and falls become increasingly more dangerous, and one of the most common places your loved ones might slip is the bathroom or kitchen – this is because when tile gets wet, it can cause a hazard.
Instead, consider replacing your flooring, particularly in your bathroom, with an anti-slip alternative.
Companies such as Flooring Direct offer a wide range of non-slip vinyl choices that are specifically designed to look like wood or tile.
This way not only can your relative bathe with peace of mind, but you’ll ensure that your bathroom still looks stylish.
Install Grab Rails
Similarly, another way to reduce the risk of falls is to install grab rails around your house. And, while you’ve probably already considered this in the bathrooms, you may not have thought to add them in spaces such as the hallway.
With grab rails, your relative will be able to navigate the home more easily, either by using the rails as support, or having something to grab onto if they feel themselves falling.
You want to ensure that these railings are securely fixed to the wall, and experts such as Accu offer a wide range of nuts, bolts, and other components so you can install the grab bars yourself.
Convert Downstairs Spaces
Finally, if you have the space to do so, consider converting one of your downstairs rooms into a bedroom for your relative – one with an ensuite if possible – that way they won’t have to worry about getting up and down the stairs to go to bed or even use the bathroom.
Of course, even if you do have the space, this can be an expensive project, so consider looking at possible grants that you might qualify for. Citizens Advice have put together this handy guide that goes through the possible help that you could qualify for when looking to make home improvements.
Photo by Francesca Tosolini on Unsplash
