The entranceway to your home is the first thing visitors experience when they arrive. It is also an area that can be incredibly challenging for seniors, so you must take steps to make sure the entryway is as accessible and safe as possible.
1. Install Handrails
Installing handrails along the side of steps or walkways can give seniors a sturdy and reliable support system when entering your home. They should be mounted securely to the wall when possible. In addition, make sure you choose non-slip materials so they won't get slippery or hard to hold in wet conditions.
2. Use Non-Slip Flooring
Slippery floors can be a major safety hazard for seniors. Non-slip flooring materials in the entranceway can help reduce fall risk, especially in bad weather. Consider using textured tile or carpet with a rubber backing for maximum traction.
3. Improve the Lighting
Adequate lighting can prove particularly essential around your entryway. Often, seniors need help transitioning between indoor and outdoor lighting, particularly if they already have other vision concerns. Furthermore, poor lighting can make it difficult to see what's happening in the area: potential hazards on the floor, children or pets, or even stairs. Consider installing motion sensor lights or higher-wattage bulbs so that the area is bright and easy to navigate.
4. Remove Trip Hazards
When you come through the entrance to your home, you might automatically navigate over and around many of the hazards typically left there. Some seniors, however, may need help avoiding cords, loose rugs, and more. Remove any loose items that could cause a fall and ensure that all furniture is secure and won't be knocked over easily.
5. Install a Ramp
If there are steps leading to your entranceway, consider installing a ramp for added accessibility. This will make it much easier for seniors to enter your home without having to worry about navigating stairs.
6. Install a Video Intercom
Installing a video intercom system can be a great way to ensure that seniors can safely enter your home without having to open the door physically. This also allows you to communicate with them from another room or even another location entirely, so you don't have to worry about being there in person every time they visit.
The Benefits of a More Accessible Entryway
Making your entranceway more accessible can be a great way to ensure seniors feel comfortable and safe when visiting your home. It also helps reduce the risk of falls and injuries, leading to improved health and quality of life for the seniors you love.
Get Help Caring for a Senior Loved One
Do you have a senior loved one who is in need of more assistance, including help getting around their own home? Senior Helpers Lehigh Valley can provide in-home caregiving assistance for seniors in Allentown, Bethlehem, Kutztown, Nazareth, Whitehall, and Schnecksville. Contact us today to learn more.