Most seniors want to go on living at home for as long as possible, independently and in a familiar environment. However, it is important to ensure safety and convenience for your senior loved ones if they have decided to remain at home.
Talk about aging in place
This is often a difficult conversation with your parents!

It’s never too early to start talking to your senior loved ones about planning for aging in place. You have to plan and ensure that your parent is safe at home and it is a joint task.

Talk to your parents and understand what is important for them. For instance, they may want their privacy, or they may feel worried about the maintenance of their house or they may not feel safe driving. Take time to figure out their needs, worries and preferences.
Address safety concerns
Older adults are likely at risk of falling and burns. You may need to make changes to your parent’s house to prevent these risks.

To prevent accidents –
• Keep the house clutter-free.
• Remove any falling hazards, such as loose rugs, cords etc.
• There should be sufficient lighting in all living spaces, including bathrooms and kitchen.
• Add grab bars in the shower and toilet, handrails near the bed, anti-skid mats on tiled flooring, if necessary. These will ensure the senior has something to hold on to while getting up and sitting down and they can move around easily without fear of falling.
• Items of daily needs should be within reach and available.
• Install a smoke detector at home and keep a fire extinguisher handy.
• All medications should be well-labeled and organized.
Emergency plan
Emergencies can come up anytime and anywhere. Ask yourself questions, like what if they fall and can’t get to the phone. Plan for such scenarios and how you would deal with them. Keep a ready kit of emergency supplies that include clean drinking water, flashlight, first aid kit etc.
Adapting the routine
As they age, your parents may need help with their regular activities of daily living such as –
• Meal prep and cooking
• Eating
• Bathing and dressing
• Grocery shopping

If needed, talk to your parents about professional home caregivers to improve their quality of life and level of independence.
Encourage your parent to stay active
Staying physically fit is vital to age in place. Regular exercise helps older adults –
• remain mobile
• reduces the risk of falls
• reduces memory problems
• prevent problems, such as dementia and mental decline

Talk to your senior loved ones about being active. Help them join online exercise classes for seniors and continue physical therapy, if they have been advised PT by their doctor.

If you are looking for toilet lift chair, chair lifts, leg lifter or toilet lift seat for seniors, check out My Home for Life or call 888-688-6435.