Bringing up the topic of changes to a living situation can be uncomfortable for senior parents and children alike. The subject usually results in thoughts of lost independence, assisted living, or nursing homes. Even if your parents aren’t at the nursing home stage, it can still be difficult for them to hear that you think they need a little extra help living in their home.
Your concerns are coming from good intentions, so it’s essential you approach the subject in a well-thought out way. If you don’t think they need assisted living or long-term care, make sure they understand that your goal is to help them stay in their home as long as possible. Here are some tips to start the conversation:
Introduce the idea of change through small modifications:
- Better lighting
- Ramps
- Flooring, which doesn’t include carpet or area rugs
- Rails
- Grab bars
In the bathroom:
- Higher toilets
- Rubber strips in the shower
- Tub seat
- Phone
Doorways and Hallways
- Widen doorways for wheelchairs or canes
- Create unobstructed openings
- Level thresholds
If your parents are getting around fine, but you notice they are losing strength or slowing down a bit, these subtle changes could be the best preventive measure you take to ensuring your parents can stay in their home. Not only will it be easier for your parents to move around in their home, but it will also prevent injury inducing falls.
The Chuba Company has the knowledge needed to successfully modify an existing home into one that’s conducive to senior living. By using the ideals in the Aging in Place initiative, we don’t miss a single detail. Give us a call to find out more about how we can help your parents stay in their home.
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photo credit: pedrosimoes7 via photopin cc
