Aging in Place: Make Your Home Safer for Elderly Loved Ones
As our loved ones age, we may need to adjust our homes to create a safe space for them to live. The essence of elder care at home begins with recognizing everyday obstacles that can become hazardous with age. Tripping hazards, slippery surfaces, and difficult-to-navigate areas can significantly increase the risk of falls. At Amerifence, we’ve helped Indianapolis clients safeguard their homes by installing outdoor railing systems in their outdoor spaces. With that in mind, here are some ways to make your home safer for your elderly loved ones.
Elder Safety in Indoor Spaces
Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 36 million older adults fall each year, and it’s one of the leading causes of serious injury among seniors? It’s more important than ever to make simple adjustments to your home to make mobility and balance easier for the older people in your life. Here’s where you can start:
1. Address Flooring Issues
Flooring choices can make a substantial difference for an elderly loved one. To mitigate slip hazards, opt for non-slip tiles or secured rugs in areas prone to wetness, like bathrooms and kitchens. Remove rugs that are not adequately secured, and consider replacing thresholds that are not flush with the floor.
2. Prioritize Bathroom Safety
Bathrooms pose significant risk areas for the elderly. Install grab bars in showers, tubs, and near toilets. Consider a walk-in bathtub or a shower with a bench to enhance safety and accessibility.
3. Incorporate Clutter-Free Living
Minimize clutter and ensure the home layout is open and accessible. Removing unnecessary furniture and securing cords can help prevent trips and falls. These basics promote a safer environment for mobility.
Elder Safety in Outdoor Spaces
If you’re planning to update the outdoor areas around your home to be a safer space for your elderly loved ones, here are a few areas to consider:
1. Illuminate Paths and Spaces
Ample lighting is critical in preventing accidents. Ensure that the home’s indoor and outdoor areas are well-lit, especially pathways, stairs, and entrances. Motion-sensor lights are an excellent choice for outdoor areas, automatically providing light when needed.
2. Install an Outdoor Railing System
When it’s about making the outside of your home safer for elderly family members, installing the right railing is crucial. Properly installed railing along walkways, steps, and around perimeters ensures that elderly family members can navigate the outdoors confidently. Amerifence offers a variety of outdoor railing options to match your preferences and needs. Here’s a simple guide to what’s available:
Aluminum Railing
Aluminum is our go-to choice for those looking into metal railings for decks. It’s very sturdy and doesn’t require much maintenance. You won’t see it rust or warp, making it great for all types of weather. Plus, it comes in different styles and colors, so you can find one that looks good with your home.
Vinyl Railing
Vinyl railings are another great option if you’re looking for something easy to maintain. They don’t get damaged easily, and cleaning them is a breeze. Like aluminum, vinyl railings are also available in various styles and colors to match your home’s exterior.
Cedar Railing
If your home already features cedar elements, such as fencing or decking, choosing a cedar railing can complement those nicely. Cedar is durable, bringing a natural, warm look to your outdoor space. We can match the style of your existing cedar work, making everything look cohesive.
Making the Right Choice
Incorporating safety features into your home for elder care is a proactive approach to preventing accidents. Small modifications can profoundly impact the daily life and safety of your elderly loved ones.
Amerifence can help you in the process. Choosing us for your railing installation means opting for a personalized approach to safety. Whether you prefer aluminum’s durability, vinyl’s low maintenance, or the natural look of cedar, we’ve got you covered.
For a new outdoor railing system for your Indianapolis, Greenwood, or Westfield area home, contact Amerifence at (317) 207-9499 or request a free quote online. You’re just a phone call away from taking the first step in preparing your home to be a haven for your elderly loved ones.