Everyday chores can get harder with age, and the kitchen—often referred to as the center of the home—is no exception. The good news is that there are a few kitchen improvements that seniors with home care and loved ones’ support can incorporate to help them continue to enjoy cooking and meal preparation in a safe and comfortable manner.
Modifiable Cabinets and Countertops
Reaching high or low cabinets and countertops is one of the biggest obstacles for seniors. However, they may be able to customize the height of countertops and cabinets to suit their demands by installing motorized or adjustable options. Additionally, pull-down shelves and pull-out drawers can increase accessibility without requiring undue bending or stretching. Loved ones can talk with local contractors to see what options are available.
Non-Slip Flooring
It’s common knowledge that slips and falls can cause major issues for seniors. For improved traction, loved ones might consider replacing slippery hardwood or tiles with non-slip flooring materials like rubber or textured vinyl. Another way to lower the danger of accidents is to use non-slip mats in front of the stove and sink.
Better Lighting
For both convenience and safety, good lighting is essential. Installing uniform, bright lighting throughout the kitchen helps improve seniors’ vision and prevent falls. Even better? Seniors can avoid fumbling with switches by using motion-sensor lights and under-cabinet lighting to illuminate commonly used areas and workplaces.
Simple to Operate Appliances and Faucets
While seniors with home care gain support through cooking and other activities, they may still want to fully access their kitchen whenever they want. For this reason, it’s a good idea for loved ones to consider replacing regular faucets with lever-style or touchless ones, which can make them easier to operate. This is especially true for seniors who have arthritis or issues with grip strength. In a similar vein, choosing appliances with big, legible buttons and automated shut-off mechanisms can improve convenience and safety.
Easily Reachable Storage Options
It’s crucial to arrange kitchen storage so that commonly used products are always accessible. Drawer organizers, lazy susans, and pull-out shelves can all help seniors locate and retrieve goods more quickly and easily without having to reach behind cabinets. Also, an orderly pantry with well-labeled shelves might also make it easier for seniors to find things, especially if they struggle with dementia.
Safety Adjustments
For seniors, including safety features like grab bars beside the sink and stove, can help them stay more stable. Additionally, smoke detectors and fire extinguishers should be easily accessible and often inspected to make sure they are in good operating order.
By making some small but effective changes to the kitchen, loved ones can help seniors significantly improve their independence in cooking and other everyday duties while still maintaining their safety and comfort. These suggestions can assist in creating a more senior-friendly kitchen environment, in addition to the home care they receive. By working together, seniors get well-rounded support and care.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Abita Springs, LA, please contact the caring staff at BrightCare Homecare today at (985) 224-0404
BrightCare Homecare is a top provider of home care services in the Northshore areas including Mandeville, Covington, Madisonville, Hammond, Ponchatoula, Slidell, Lacombe, Abita Springs, Goodbee, St. Tammany Parish, and more.
Through a personalized care plan, BrightCare Homecare provides the necessary services and care to cater to your unique personal and health needs. With us, we ensure around-the-clock services and supervision to help achieve optimum health and wellness.
We are a top provider of home care services in Lafayette, Youngsville, Broussard, New Iberia, Breaux Bridge, Carencro, Opelousas, Sunset, Crowley, Abbeville, Scott, Cecilia, Port Barre, Iota, and the surrounding areas.
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