Tips for Making Aging in Place More Comfortable
Many seniors have the desire to remain living at home as they grow older. After all, staying in the comfort of a familiar environment has plenty of advantages, including helping them maintain their precious independence. However, there are still plenty of risks that seniors should be aware of.
Key Strategies for Aging in Place Safely
As their loved one, it’s natural to have concerns about your family member’s safety, health, and mobility while they age in place. Here are several suggestions for making this living option both workable and comfortable for your senior relative.
Make Home Safety Modifications
One major drawback to seniors living alone is that they could fall and get hurt. With no one around to help, serious injuries—and even death—may occur. To help improve the security of their living space, assist your loved one in making safety enhancements around the home. This can include upgrading to brighter indoor and outdoor lighting, removing clutter, and adding grab bars in slippery areas.
Free Resource: Visiting Angels offers a free resource to aid in fall prevention and making a home safer and more accessible. Download our Fall Prevention Resource Guide.
Simplify Daily Activities
Another step in reducing the risk of home accidents is simplifying the tasks your loved one has to perform every day. Consider purchasing assistive devices, like reaching tools, adaptive clothing, and an electric can opener to make activities easier. It’s also a good idea to store frequently used items in an easily accessible location to minimize bending and stretching.
Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle
Staying healthy and active reduces the chances of seniors developing health conditions that could force them into assisted living. The National Institute on Aging recommends older adults fit in plenty of daily physical activity and make smart food choices, including fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, and lean protein sources.
Utilize Community Resources
The Arlington Heights area has a wealth of helpful organizations available that can make aging in place a smoother experience for your family member, including two Area Agencies on Aging. Additionally, the Arlington Heights Senior Center is a great place for older adults to socialize, have fun, and stay connected to their community.
Seek Support
Even if they’re relatively healthy, your senior family member likely needs support to remain living at home. While family members are usually willing to help out, this is where professional assistance, like hiring a caregiver, can make a huge difference. An in-home caregiver can help with personal care duties, like bathing and dressing, or more specialized care for those who have medical conditions. Home care providers can help bridge the gap when family and friends are unable to help their senior loved one.
Aging in Place is Possible with Visiting Angels
Investing in personal care services with Visiting Angels Arlington Heights can make living independently a comfortable and sustainable option for your senior loved one. We would love the chance to chat with you about our flexible in-home care options.
Contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation at your family member’s home in Arlington Heights.