For individuals with limited mobility, having the right tools and equipment in their homes can mean the difference between real independence and relying on others for help. When it comes to helping disabled seniors maintain or regain independence, equipment upgrades at home can be an important measure that family members should consider.
In fact, many of the recommended equipment upgrades for disabled seniors are more affordable than you realize.
Reasons to Upgrade Home Equipment for Disabled Seniors
Equipment upgrades for disabled seniors can make a major difference in their quality of life. Upgrading their elderly care equipment at home can help remove potential obstacles. It also provides mobility and safety improvement that will benefit them in day-to-day activities. Beyond that, providing a more comfortable environment can go a long way toward making them feel more secure and socially connected with the people around them.
Common Types of Home Equipment Upgrades for Disabled Seniors
You will want to make upgrades to your loved one's bathroom, kitchen, as well as the bedroom. This way, you can ensure they can get around their home as safely as possible.
Bathroom
Many seniors are unable to safely navigate showers and tubs without assistance. To make it easier for them, install a walk-in bathtub that provides easy access, as well as prevents dangerous slips and falls. Additionally, shower seats and grab bars around the bathroom will ensure that they have something secure to hold onto while bathing or using the toilet.
Kitchen
Incorporating modifications like countertop height adjustments provide an extra layer of safety in the kitchen. This is a significant benefit to seniors who handle meal preparation on their own. Pullout shelves may also be added underneath sink cabinets. Prepping and washing dishes would no longer require seniors to reach down or across their bodies at uncomfortable angles. Other kitchen equipment upgrades include wheelchair-accessible sinks and built-in space-saver microwaves meant specifically for those with limited mobility in the upper body region.
Bedroom
Making sure that sleeping areas are comfortable and ergonomic is important for anyone. However, it is especially important to seniors who have disabilities that restrict movement. This requires items like adjustable beds, which allow for positioning changes with just a press of a button. Additionally, wheelchair-accessible closets can give seniors better access to their own clothing selections. An automatic door opener is also a great investment.
Cost and Installation Concerns
Cost is a major concern for many families trying to keep their senior loved ones in their own homes. Adding numerous home equipment upgrades for disabled seniors may feel like a major investment. However, some of these options, such as a grab bar in the bathroom, are low-cost solutions.
For some of the more expensive upgrades, and how to install them, you can look into available senior resources in your area. You may be able to seek assistance from a church or local organization.
Connect With Senior Helpers Fort Wayne
Senior Helpers in Fort Wayne is a trusted source for in-home care and on-site support for seniors throughout Allen County, Indiana. If you're in the Huntertown, Arcola, Laotto, Auburn, Fort Wayne, Garrett, Leo, Grabill, or Woodburn area and looking to make home improvements for your elderly loved one's quality of life, connect with us for assistance. Our team can provide help with mobility needs, such as transfers from bed to chair.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help seniors thrive in their own homes.