Aging in place comes with numerous benefits for your quality of life as you grow older, including the ability to maintain your independence, decreased loneliness, and greater financial savings. If given the opportunity, an estimated 77% of adults over the age of 50 say they would prefer to age in place, according to an article published in Delaware Journal of Public Health.
If you have a loved one who has expressed the desire to age in place, you can make several changes to their home to help them stay safe and comfortable. Certain upgrades and modifications — such as installing ramps and shower bars — can go a long way toward preventing falls and accidents while helping your loved one maintain their independence as they continue to age. But these aren’t the only steps you can take. Read on to learn more useful tips for helping your loved one age in place.
Prevent Falls
Every second in the United States, an adult aged 65 or older experiences a fall, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Falls are currently the leading cause of injury and injury-related deaths among people in this age group. Steps you can take to prevent falls in your loved one’s home include:
- Reviewing their medications to determine whether dizziness or sleepiness are side effects, and having your loved one talk to their doctor about switching their medication if necessary
- Keeping floors free of clutter that can increase the risk of falls
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms, tubs, and showers
- Placing no-slip strips and mats in tubs and showers
- Making sure handrails on stairs are sturdy
- Installing sensor lights on stairs
- Removing throw rugs that slide easily
Make the Kitchen Safer
Reduced mobility and forgetfulness are some of the multiple factors that increase the risk for kitchen accidents among older adults. Take a look around your loved one’s kitchen to spot opportunities for making the room a safer and more enjoyable space. Things you can do to make your loved one’s kitchen safer include:
- Providing them with non-slip cutting boards and cut-resistant gloves
- Making sure all appliances work correctly
- Replacing outdated appliances with those that have timers or that are easier to use, such as those with large digital displays
- Moving heavy or commonly used appliances to lower shelves or cabinets where they are easily accessible
- Replacing glass containers and dishes with plastic or silicone counterparts
Avoid Poisoning
Carbon monoxide, cleaning products, and prescription medications all come with the risk of poisoning, especially among aging adults. Perform a careful inspection around your loved one’s home to identify hazards related to chemicals and poisoning. Some of the steps involved may include:
- Installing a carbon monoxide detector near the bedroom, or making sure existing detectors have working batteries
- Making sure your loved one knows never to attempt heating their home using a stove, oven, or grill, as these appliances may emit carbon monoxide
- Choosing the right cleaning products that do not require mixing, given how mixing certain chemicals like bleach and ammonia can create deadly fumes and gasses
- Ensuring your loved one is taking their medications as prescribed
- Asking the pharmacist to put labels and instructions on prescription bottles that are clear and easy to read
In addition, take a look at your loved one’s medications to make sure they’re not using two or more drugs that can cause a fatal overdose when combined — such as benzodiazepines and opioids. Your loved one may be using medications that cause dangerous interactions if they are seeing two different doctors or providers for separate health issues. Provide your loved one’s doctors with a list of medications they’re using to minimize the risk of drug interactions.
Post Emergency Numbers in Clear View
Though aging in place can increase your older loved one’s confidence and independence, they may still feel frightened or need help at times. Write or print out a list of important emergency numbers, and post it in clear view where they can easily access it, such as on their refrigerator.
Emergency numbers to consider including on the list:
- 911
- 1-800-222-1222, the toll-free Poison Helpline, which connects to your loved one’s local poison control center
- The number(s) for their local law enforcement department
- Numbers of friends and relatives they can call in case of an emergency
- The numbers of their healthcare providers
If your loved one has a specific health condition, ask their healthcare provider about other useful ways you can help them age in place safely while managing their condition. Their doctor may be able to provide additional tips that can help them preserve their health and happiness at home while growing older.
Resource Links
“Aging in Place: Are We Prepared?” via Delaware Journal of Public Health
“Keep on Your Feet—Preventing Older Adult Falls” via the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
“Benzodiazepines and Opioids” via National Institute on Drug Abuse