What Are the Best Ways to Make Your Loved One’s Living Room a Little Safer?

Elderly Care in Fairfax County VAElderly-Care-in-Fairfax-County-VA

Your elderly loved one probably spends a good bit of her time in her living room. But is that room as safe as it could be for her? Here are a few items to check.

Improve the Lighting

One of the biggest risks for falls among the elderly is simply being unable to see obstacles. Take a good look at the lighting in your loved one’s living areas. The solution could be as simple as swapping out bulbs for some that are brighter. You may also want to change out fixtures or add a few more lamps in the room.

Get Cords Out of the Way

Another huge problem when it comes to falling is cords that are in the way. Make sure that all cords are out of the way and tucked up against walls whenever possible. If there are a lot of cords, consider using cable ties to keep them all together and tucked away.

Deal with Loose Rugs and Carpets

Loose carpets and rugs can be extremely dangerous for anyone, but especially for your elderly loved one. If carpeting is not in good shape, investigate the flooring beneath it. It’s entirely possible that the floor under the carpet is in good condition and could be safer than the carpet itself. Tape down loose throw rugs or take them out of the space entirely.

Rearrange the Furniture

If your loved one has balance issues or other problems, having furniture out in the middle of open areas can actually be a hazard. Try rearranging the furniture so that your elderly loved one has more room in which to navigate the room and the areas into and out of the room.

Install an Intercom or Phone for the Front Door

Answering the front door can be frightening for some elderly loved ones. If there is a way to identify who is at the door from the comfort of the couch, your elderly loved one may not feel as anxious when the doorbell rings. Everyone from your loved one’s elderly care providers to delivery people can use the intercom to communicate with your loved one without her having to actually go to the door.

Making your loved one’s main living area safer may not involve all of these techniques, but they’re a good starting point for you to help her to feel more secure.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional elderly care in Fairfax County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 369-6677. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities

Julie McCormick, Co-Owner