If your senior parent is aging in place, they probably spend most of their time in the living room. Have you taken steps to make the living room safe and reduce the risk of falls? If not, now is the time to do that. An elder care provider can help your parent avoid falls around the house and beyond.
Some of the best ways to make the living room a safe space for your senior parent and minimize the risks of falls in the living room are:
1. Clear Clutter and Create Open Pathways
One of the most effective ways to prevent falls in your senior parent’s living room is to eliminate potential tripping hazards.
Ensure that the floor is free of obstacles like rugs, cords, or furniture that could cause someone to trip. This includes items like books, toys, and personal belongings that may accumulate throughout the day.
If rugs are necessary, make sure they have a non-slip backing or use rug pads to secure them in place. Ensure that the walkways are wide enough for easy navigation, especially if your mom or dad uses a walker, a cane, or has a wheelchair.
2. Install Better Lighting
Poor lighting can significantly increase the risk of falls, particularly at night. To make it easier for your mom or dad to see at night, install brighter, warm lights that are gentle on the eyes but still provide enough visibility.
Install night lights in hallways, along pathways, and in bathrooms to guide your parent safely during nighttime trips. Consider adding motion-sensor lights in key areas, such as near entrances and stairs, so that your senior parent doesn’t need to reach, fumble, or stumble to search for light switches in the dark.
3. Choose Furniture with Safety in Mind
The furniture in your living room can make a big difference when it comes to your mom or dad’s safety. Choose furniture that is sturdy and easy to get in and out of, such as chairs with armrests that provide support.
Avoid chairs or couches that are too low, as they can be difficult to get out of. If your mom or dad has problems with their balance a higher chair or higher couch will make it easier for them to stand up. You may also want to consider furniture with rounded edges to reduce the risk of injury if your parent does stumble or fall.
A lift chair is often recommended for seniors because they can operate the lift with a remote control and use that to boost themselves out of the chair or help settle them safely into the chair.
4. Install Non-Slip Flooring
Slippery floors can be a major hazard for seniors. Consider replacing high-gloss flooring with non-slip alternatives or add non-slip mats to prevent slipping.
Hardwood floors and tile, while beautiful, can be particularly dangerous when wet, so be mindful of spills and wipe them up immediately.
If your parent prefers carpeting, choose low-pile, non-slip carpet that reduces the risk of tripping. You could also apply non-slip coatings to your floors or invest in non-slip shoe covers for your senior parent.
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Aubrey, TX, please contact the caring staff at Ray of Sunshine Senior Care today! (940) 310-3105
Ray of Sunshine Senior Care Provides Senior Home Care Services in Denton, Lewisville, Gainesville, Keller, Grapevine, Coppell, Carrollton, Southlake, Valley View, Aubrey, Frisco, Corinth, Argyle, Roanoke, Counties: Denton County, Tarrant County, Collin County, and surrounding areas.
At the same time, she and her husband were faced with the care of his father on the west coast which presented the unique challenges of long-distance care. These events led to a crash course in the senior care industry and her unending dedication to helping seniors and families in similar circumstances. When not working Cynthia enjoys cooking, gardening and traveling with a focus on visiting State and National Parks.
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