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As we’re all aware from many news features and studies, the number of people living into their older years is growing. And as more baby boomers reach retirement age, the demand for assisted living services is expected to grow – by around 28% between now and 2026 according to the TODAY article, “How Ageing Will Change Your Home”.
If you have elderly family members who are coming to stay with you, it’s important you take steps now so that your house is ready for them when they arrive. Depending on their needs and circumstances, they may need different things from their surroundings in order to be happy and feel at home.
Read on for some helpful tips on preparing your home for elderly residents.
Assess your loved one’s needs
There are a few things you can do to get a sense of what your loved one’s needs are going to be while they’re living with you. This can help you to identify any gaps in your current home’s readiness that you can then address.
You can get an idea of what might be helpful by asking some questions. Do they have any specific limitations to keep track of? What type of activities does your loved one enjoy? Do they have any hobbies, or hobbies that you could enjoy together? If so, you can make sure you’ve got some equipment ready. For example, if they’re a fan of gardening, you can stock up on some garden tools to help them get started.
Install assistive technology
Assistive technology, also known as adaptive technology, can help your loved one live more independently.
One example is a computer with a voice-to-text function, which can be helpful for those who have impaired vision. Assistive technology can also help with mobility issues; a motorised wheelchair provides smoother mobility over rough terrain, while a stair lift or a wheelchair that climbs stairs allows for more freedom of movement within the home. Additionally, installing an emergency alarm can help minimise any risk should you be out of the house.
Plan for the future
Your loved one could be living in your home for a long time, so you need to ensure that it’s ready for long-term living.
Make sure that you have a plan for healthcare needs, long-term care needs, and finances. If your elderly resident has a health insurance policy, check that they have quick and easy access to it. It’s also important to provide a place in the home where they can go to relax away from the stress of busy family life.
The presence of an elderly family member in your home can present its own unique set of challenges, but if you consider these areas you will be better equipped to welcome them and make them feel part of the family.
Have you got any tips when it comes to preparing your home for elderly residents?
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