Simple Ways to Make the Kitchen Safer for a Senior Parent
By Home Care Assistance Des Moines 9 am on
The kitchen is where many families create wonderful meals and memories, and some say it’s the heart of the home. However, kitchens can also present a few hazards for seniors who have limited mobility or other health conditions. Take preventive measures such as making these simple changes to your senior loved one’s kitchen space.
Invest in Nonskid Mats
If your loved one’s kitchen has throw rugs, they should be replaced with nonskid mats to prevent falls. Nonskid mats have a cushioned surface on top and rubber grips on the bottom to ensure both comfort and safety. These products are an excellent option for the slippery surfaces of tile and wood floors.
Strategically Place Commonly Used Items
Seniors with limited mobility shouldn’t have to bend down or use step stools to reach everyday items. Take some time to speak with your loved one about the kitchen utensils and appliances he or she uses most often, and then place those items at waist level. All cabinets and cupboards should be organized and free of clutter to prevent items from crashing down and injuring your loved one.A professional in-home caregiver can help your loved one safely prepare nutritious meals and maintain a high quality of life. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Des Moines seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.
Replace Old Bulbs & Fixtures
The lighting in your loved one’s home should be as bright as possible to prevent tripping and other accidents. It’s especially important to have great lighting in the kitchen because your loved one may be using potentially dangerous items like knives. Under-cabinet lights are affordable upgrades to further increase the lighting over his or her cooking space.
Upgrade to an ADA-Compliant Faucet
All ADA-compliant products are designed to be as safe and comfortable to use as possible. An ADA-compliant faucet is a great option for anyone who experiences dexterity issues. Some newer faucets even have touch and motion sensors that can be completely manipulated without moving a lever. When you’re upgrading the faucet, make sure to set the water heater to 120 degrees to prevent burns.Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leadingat-home careagency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.
Remove Non-Food Items from the Kitchen
Seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s may begin to have difficulty distinguishing between food and non-food items, leading to accidental consumption of dangerous substances. Remove any inedible items from the kitchen that might be mistaken for food. This includes cleaning products stored under the sink or stashed away in cabinets. If your loved one has one of these conditions, all toxic and hazardous materials should be safely locked away. Hiring an in-home caregiver can ensure your loved one’s safety while he or she ages in place. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Des Moines senior care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. If you need compassionate professional in-home care for your loved one, call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438.
