Accessibility Features Every Independent Living Community Needs

According to the CDC, falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with 1 in 4 seniors experiencing a fall each year.

Ensuring elderly home safety is crucial to preventing such incidents.

Join us as we look into the must-have accessibility features that independent living communities need to provide a secure and comfortable environment for seniors.

Senior Living Safety: Accessible Entrances and Exits

There are three key elements to consider when making entrances and exits accessible in an independent living community. They are:

• Wheelchair ramps and wide doorways
• Automatic doors or easy-to-operate handles
• Proper lighting and non-slip surfaces

Elderly Home Adaptations: Wheelchair Ramps and Wide Doorways

Making sure entrances and exits are wide enough for wheelchairs is a basic but necessary step. Standard doorways often aren't wide enough for those using mobility aids.

Expanding these spaces allows for easier movement and reduces the risk of accidents. Wheelchair ramps provide safe access to different levels of the community and should be sturdy with a gradual slope.

Automatic Doors or Easy-to-Operate Handles

Automatic doors are a helpful addition for seniors who may have trouble opening heavy doors. When automatic doors aren't possible, handles that are easy to grip and operate can make a significant difference. These adjustments help those with limited strength or dexterity enter and exit with ease.

Proper Lighting and Non-Slip Surfaces

Good lighting is important in all areas, but especially around entrances and exits. Bright, well-placed lights can prevent accidents. Alongside lighting, non-slip surfaces are crucial. Slips and falls are common hazards for seniors, so installing non-slip mats or textured flooring can provide extra security.

Elderly Home Safety: Safe and Accessible Bathrooms

Creating safe and accessible bathrooms is one of the most important steps in enhancing elderly home safety. Bathrooms can be dangerous for seniors due to slippery floors, limited mobility, and the need for balance in a small space. By making a few key modifications, you can reduce the risk of accidents and make daily activities easier.

Grab bars are a simple yet effective way to prevent falls. They should be installed near the toilet and in the shower or bathtub. They give seniors something to hold onto as they move, providing extra stability.

Walk-in showers are another essential feature. Stepping over a bathtub edge can be difficult and dangerous.

Walk-in showers remove this barrier and allow for easier access. Non-slip flooring is another must-have. Tiles that are textured or have non-slip coatings can make a big difference in preventing slips.

Adjustable showerheads are also helpful. They allow seniors to wash without needing to stretch or bend, which can reduce strain and the risk of falling.

Raised toilet seats are another feature that can make a bathroom more accessible. They reduce the amount of effort needed to sit and stand, which can be challenging for those with limited mobility.

Safe Living For Seniors: Adjustable and Senior-Friendly Kitchen Design

A kitchen that is both adjustable and senior-friendly can greatly enhance the independence of elderly residents. Kitchens are often a challenging space for seniors due to high cabinets, difficult-to-reach appliances, and complex controls.

By making a few adjustments, kitchens can become more accessible and safe. Lower countertops are a key feature in senior-friendly kitchens. They allow for easier access to preparation areas and reduce the need to reach or stretch.

Cabinets should be placed within easy reach so seniors don't have to climb or strain to get everyday items. Pull-out shelves and drawers can also make storage areas more accessible.

Appliances with simple controls are another important consideration. Many seniors struggle with small buttons or complicated settings.

Stoves, ovens, and microwaves with larger, easy-to-read dials or touchscreens can make a big difference. Safety features like automatic shut-off functions can also help prevent accidents.

Bedroom and Living Area Adaptations

Bedrooms and living areas need to be both safe and comfortable for seniors. These spaces are where residents spend much of their time, so making them accessible is essential. Adjustments in these areas can help reduce the risk of falls and make daily activities easier.

One key feature in bedrooms is adjustable beds. These beds allow seniors to find a comfortable position and make getting in and out of bed easier.

For those with mobility issues, this can be a significant improvement. Furniture in both bedrooms and living areas should also be designed with safety in mind.

Rounded edges on tables and chairs can help prevent injuries, especially in case of a fall. Additionally, it's helpful to ensure that furniture is stable and won't easily tip over.

Proper lighting is another important factor. Bedrooms and living rooms should have enough light to prevent accidents, with switches placed within easy reach.

For example, placing light switches near the bed or entrance to the room can make a big difference. Easy-to-reach outlets are also helpful for reducing the need to bend or stretch when plugging in devices.

Independent living aids like recliners or mobility chairs can further enhance comfort and independence. These adaptations help seniors move around more easily and maintain their quality of life.

Emergency Response Systems and Safety Alarms

Emergency response systems and safety alarms are essential features in independent living communities. They provide peace of mind for both residents and their families. Knowing that help is just a button press away can make a big difference in how safe and secure seniors feel in their homes.

Personal emergency response systems (PERS) are wearable devices that allow residents to call for help if they fall or face any other emergency. They are easy to use and can quickly connect residents with medical assistance.

Another important feature is fall detection devices. They can automatically alert emergency services if a fall occurs, even if the resident is unable to push a button.

Home Modifications for Elderly People

Ensuring elderly home safety requires thoughtful planning and accessible design.

At The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights, we have a prime focus on the safety and well-being of all of our residents. We help our residents recover from illness or injury with our CARE + CONFIDENCE program, which provides a nurturing environment for recovery and renewal.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help your loved one!