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During the holiday season, many of us are getting our homes ready for visiting friends and family.
Having multiple generations under one roof takes some planning, but it doesn’t have to be a challenge. Just as you’d babyproof to make your home safer for a younger child, it’s a smart move to make your home safer for an older family member.
Here are five easy steps that can help prevent nasty accidents and make life a lot easier for your visiting loved ones.
Be clutter-free with bins. If you’re used to leaving toys, clothes and other objects lying on the floor, you'll need to pick them up. Pick a spot that’s out of the way and set up a large basket to serve as a catchall for things that tend to end up on the floor.
Prevent slips and falls with anti-slip mats, grab bars and adhesive strips. Anti-slip mats, often made of rubber or a similar material, fit under throw rugs to increase traction, and greatly decrease the chances of a fall. Removing throw rugs also solves the problem – provided that they weren’t covering slick, waxed wood floors, which can also be a hazard. In the bathroom, grab bars in the tub or shower and beside the toilet are lifesavers and help prevent falls. Low-cost, no-slip adhesive strips also can decrease the risk of slippery bathroom areas and steps.
Soften edges with furniture bumpers. Use clear plastic bumpers that fit over sharp furniture corners to prevent injury. Alternatively, remove sharp-edged furniture from the room. Unsteady chairs should be replaced as well.
Stay cool with anti-scalding devices. These inexpensive devices (about $40) automatically turn off the water if it gets too hot. They can easily be installed on faucets in your kitchen or on showers and tubs. Alternatively, turn down the thermostat on your hot-water heater so the water never gets above 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
Light the way. It’s not just the rooms in your house that need to be well-lit: Make sure walkways, hallways and entryways are illuminated, too. Lighting should be bright but not harsh or blinding.
Amy Levner is Manager of Housing and Mobility Options at AARP. She leads the Association’s educational and outreach efforts related to housing options, including universal design and living in place, as well as broader mobility options, including expanding transportation choices for older Americans.
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