4 Ways to Transform Your Property for Elderly Parents

Taking care of elderly parents in your home is considerably less expensive than if they stay in a care home, especially with recent increases in their costs. Nevertheless, we’re often unprepared for what comes next when we suggest that our parents move in with us.

Most adult children haven’t talked with their parents about their silver years, so broaching this matter might initially come as a shock. However, it will be worth it to ensure that your parents don’t feel abandoned by their children as they age.

Here are 4 ways to transform your property, or a part of it, for seniors moving in.

In most homes, the bedrooms are usually upstairs, and the living quarters are below. For parents who have mobility issues, perhaps with their knees or hips, climbing up and down the stairs may be a hazard. If their grip and balance are not what they once were, holding onto the banister might not be enough.

In which case, a good option is to get a lift supplied and fitted by Terry Lifts. They offer a variety of lift formats, such as platform or step lifts, that are wide enough to fit a wheelchair. This solves the problem of getting upstairs and removes the possibility of sustaining an injury, too.

Bathrooms can be unsafe when you get older. Tiled floor gets slippery if wet, such as when getting in and out of the shower cubicle or bath. This is especially risky for older people with poor balance and less muscle strength to pull themselves up if they begin to fall.

In you bath or shower, use a mat this adheres to the bottom and provides better grip for feet. Add a shower chair to the shower to allow your parent to wash themselves while seated. If your bath doesn’t have handles, consider replacing it to provide additional support for your parent when getting in and out. Alternatively, it is possible to fit extras bars around the bath to save buying a new one.

Declutter the space to remove some of the obstacles that prevent you to walk around freely. If your parents use a walking stick or another walking device, more width to move around is better.

Attach rugs securely to the flooring so they don’t move under their feet, or remove them altogether. Look for cables and cords that are sticking out and could cause an accident. While you know they’re there, your parents won’t likely remember and could trip.

Decide whether they’ll be cooking or not. If they’re used to a gas cooker and you have electric (or visa-versa), they may have trouble adjusting.

Also, relocate plates and pans to cabinets that are easier to access without having to reach up or bend down too much.

Making space for your elders is more affordable than paying for a residential or nursing care home, and you also get to make their life more pleasant while they enjoy their remaining years, too. By making a few small changes to your home, it will become easily accessible for aging parents.