Preparing your home when a disabled or elderly relative moves in

Preparing your home when a disabled or elderly relative moves in

When we think of home, we often think of a place where we feel comfortable. But for some, such as disabled and elderly individuals, home can become a source of stress which is difficult to maintain and get around. 


For those that need a little help, it is a common option for them to move in with family who can be to hand to help out with their needs. Although this is a common situation, many don’t understand the requirements of their elderly or disabled relatives. 


In this article, we discuss the various ways you can help to prepare your home ready for a disabled or elderly relative to move in. These span from small updates to potential renovations that should be undertaken before the move to ensure site and individual safety.



External Accessibility


Something that we often pay no mind to is how easy it is for us to get to and from, in and out of our own homes. But without the correct setup, this can be an incredibly difficult task for the elderly and disabled. 


It is a good exercise to consider how you currently get in and out of your property and ask yourself if any obstacles may prove difficult. For example, for those who struggle to walk, a steel handrail next to steps or steep inclines could help with their stability. 


Equally, for wheelchair users, steps may need to be replaced by a concrete ramp. These types of ramps must be correctly maintained to ensure safety. Or by using reinforcing products like a252 concrete mesh you can limit the possibility of dangerous cracks or holes appear in your concrete ramp over time.   


Ensuring that there is suitable parking is also a key to good accessibility. This could mean you need to talk to the local council about reserving a disabled parking spot, or making your own similar arrangements. 



Internal Accessibility


Getting into the home is just the start for helping your disabled or elderly relative gain hassle-free access to your home


A few updates may be required in your property in order to help people get around. This may include a stairlift where someone who struggles to walk needs to get to the first floor in the property. 


Wheelchair users will also need internal ramps to allow access to all rooms. You may also want to consider lowering light switches and raising plugs, so those who are in wheelchairs can easily access both. 


Functional rooms such as the kitchen and bathroom will also likely need updating in order to be suitable for disabled and elderly relatives. How they are adapted will likely depend on the individual’s personal challenges, but may include bath lifts and handles to ensure stability. 



Communication 


When we move a disabled or elderly relative into our homes, a huge benefit is that we can be there to help during their times of need. Although this is the case, we also need to continue to live our lives and this can mean that we are not always in the room or house with our relative at all times. 


Using a personal communication device such as a mobile phone which is easy for them to access and use or personal alarm, they can quickly and easily contact you or another responsible individual should any issues occur. 



Dedicated Storage


Those that struggle with their mobility often requires some equipment to help them get about. Occasionally these are smaller items such as walking sticks which can easily be stored in many areas around the home.


However, on some occasions, it is possible that equipment is much larger such as wheelchairs. Where this is the case it is important to ensure that you maintain appropriate storage so that the items are not causing an obstruction. 


Moving an elderly or disabled relative into your home can be a great way to provide the level of care they deserve. This guide has helped you understand some of the most important areas to consider so you can make their lives as comfortable and stress-free as possible.