As we age or as our mobility decreases it’s important to keep living independently for as long as possible. The ability to manage household chores like cooking, cleaning and self-care as safely as possible is paramount to being able to remain in our own homes for longer.
There are a number of simple changes you can implement in your house to improve your way of life and make a huge difference between living independently and living with difficulty, limitations and extra carers in your home.
Here are our top tips for how to easily adapt your home to suit your daily needs.
Kitchen Safety
Independent living calls for you to be able to cook and feed yourself safely and successfully every day. The kitchen can be a hazardous place at the best of times but these small household adaptations can help to make the kitchen chores easier.
- A pan handle holder will keep your hot pots and pans in place while you’re cooking at the hob. When you’re less stable on your feet this can provide peace of mind and remove any concern over burns from scalding water.
- Again, lifting the kettle when it’s full of boiling water can be a dangerous moment in the kitchen. A kettle tipper supports the heavy kettle while you pour the water and removes risk of scalding.
- Other simple kitchen accessories that can be invaluable to your ability to manage cooking and feeding yourself are tap turners, a jar and bottle opener for those awkward, stiff bottles and an easy-grip Chef Knife which is useful for arthritis sufferers because of its soft grip and contours that lessen stress on the hand and wrist.
Bathroom Safety
Falling during showering, bathing, toileting or washing is a major concern for the elderly and less mobile. Thankfully there are a number of simple adaptations designed to keep your bathroom safe.
- A raised toilet seat or one with armrests can support you while using the toilet
- Installing Grab bars for the shower or bath can help to prevent falls and support your bodyweight while maneuvering in and out.
- Whilst in the shower you might find it helpful to use a sturdy plastic shower seat
Improve Access
Make it easier to access the house at all external entrances.
- Fit Hand rails for the front/back doorstep as well as at any internal steps or awkward stairways to provide stability and prevent falls
- If you’re a temporary or regular wheelchair user you will need to allow proper access for your chair with a ramp.
- Redesigning your front door area to remove steps or planting can be very costly so you could consider a temporary or foldaway wheelchair ramp
- A key access box fitted outside your front door is recommended to allow access to you and your home by carers or medical professionals in the event of an emergency.
Make your Home Fall-Proof
- Having a good clear-up is a great start. Remove trip hazards and free up plenty of floor space for easy access around the home.
- Your doctor might recommend using a cane or walker to keep you steady
- Wearing sturdy, properly fitting shoes with nonslip soles is essential for preventing falls and may also help to reduce joint pain. We recommend wearing comfortable, non-slip slippers which are wide-fitting and very easy to put on & take off.
If you're still unsure, we at Mediworld can advise you on how to equip your home for your specific needs to continue living independently. We have over 40 years of homecare and medical experience and are more than happy to help.
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January 2022