Safe Home Design for the Elderly

The design focus is no longer limited to aesthetic needs, but must also consider the safety and comfort of design for parents. This is to maintain their safety when doing activities at home.

Here are 5 tips for designing a friendly home for the elderly that must be considered!

1. Maximize the size of the space

To meet this need, the maximum basic size of space is the main thing that must be applied.

This is because the elderly generally use walking aids, such as canes or wheelchairs.

2. Reduce the presence of stairs

Many cases of accidents occur in the area of ​​​​the stairs, such as slipping and falling.

If the house has two floors, you should place the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and television viewing room downstairs.
This is intended to make it easier for parents.

In addition, also avoid leveling (height differences) between rooms in the house.

This can impede movement and cause the foot to stumble.

3. Safe in the bathroom

In addition to the stairs, the bathroom is an area that is full of dangers.

For this reason, the bathroom should be designed to be spacious so as to facilitate the mobility of the elderly.

It’s a good idea to add a rubber rug on the floor so it’s not slippery and also provide a handle in the bathroom to prevent the elderly from slipping.

Choose a toilet seat and use the automatic water system.

Don’t forget, always keep the bathroom clean to avoid the appearance of moss which can make it slippery.

4. Pay attention to the floor of the house

This is because the ability to walk and balance themselves decreases in the elderly.

Avoid using floor coatings with slippery textures in elderly-friendly home designs, especially those that are often passed by the elderly.

Hardwood or parquet floors can be the right choice.

If using carpets at home, avoid carpets that move easily, which can make the elderly slip or trip.

Choose a carpet with a heavy type so that it doesn’t move easily and that can cover the floor perfectly