When people think about home improvements, they often think about renovating the kitchen, redoing the bathroom, putting on an addition, finishing off a basement, and other similar things. For seniors, safety should be a top concern and there are numerous home improvements that can be made that will improve safety for these men and women.

There are numerous potential home improvement projects that an elderly person can take on to benefit their safety and well-being. Below are just a few to consider.

Install grab bars

When a person steps into and out of the shower, there are times when they may lose their balance. What happens if a person in their late 70s, 80s, or 90s loses their balance? It might be difficult for them to maintain it and avoid a fall.

Most people instinctively reach out to grab onto something. If they grab onto a basic towel bar it’s probably going to rip free from the wall and they will still fall, sustaining potentially devastating injuries. A grab bar is different; it is anchored into the wall studs and is capable of holding the weight of a full-grown adult. This can keep them from a hard fall and subsequent injuries.

Consider stairlifts

If the house has a basement or multiple levels, stairlifts can be a great asset. The senior doesn’t have to use a stairlift if he or she isn’t inclined to do so, but in the event that they don’t feel confident in their strength and balance, if they are carrying certain objects up and down the stairs, then that stairlift can be a valuable asset.

Improve lighting

Avoiding shadows and darker areas of the house is a great way to help seniors avoid stumbling, tripping over something they didn’t see, and being injured due to a fall. Improving lighting is a simple improvement project.

To improve lighting, installing more lights, putting more floor lamps, or even increasing the wattage of bulbs that are already in the lights throughout the house is a simple way to help keep seniors safer, especially during those extremely dark nights.

Pull items down from high cabinets

In the kitchen, in closets, and in other areas where items may be stored up high, bringing them down to within normal reach is a great way to help improve safety for seniors. When they don’t have to use a stepladder or chair, that senior will avoid potentially serious falls and injuries.

If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home care in Dallas, TX, please contact the caring staff at Assisting Hands of Preston Hollow today at (214) 865-7870.