When your parent(s) come to live with you in a home you haven’t actually designed and equipped with them in mind, a lot of different emotions and thoughts are likely to arise. No matter how much you love them and how well you get along, you will at least at some point feel a bit of resentment and overwhelm. That’s especially the case if their health issues are considerable and need to be carefully monitored.
Difficulty with self-care is one of the main reasons seniors move out of their own homes and in with family members or to assisted living communities. Activities like bathing and using the toilet are quite personal, and it can be uncomfortable having to ask for help. Fortunately, there are a number of bathroom modifications that help older people manage these tasks safely and comfortably.
The vast majority of seniors want to age in place and live independently in their own homes. That means home safety must be a priority. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, and many of these falls happen in the bathroom. Safety rails and grab bars installed in the shower/tub and toilet area can help prevent dangerous, even life-threatening, injuries.
Aging in place means helping seniors stay in their home and live happier lives. But to keep your loved one safe and healthy, it’s important to walk through their home to ensure proper changes are made to support older bodies. Don’t skip choosing an appropriate shower chair, as this could prevent serious falls and injuries!
Helping seniors age in place requires home modifications to accommodate their reduced physical abilities. For older adults, the slippery surfaces in the bathroom mean that a senior bathroom makeover can be key to aging in place safely. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than a quarter of seniors age 65 and older fall each year. Many of those falls happen when while entering or exiting the tub.