Living alone is what many people want when they reach adulthood, but when they get older and reach their golden years, it can be a challenge to even do the simplest of things. In the United States, more than 27% of seniors live alone, and this number is steadily increasing.
Seniors who live alone are more prone to accidents as they have more health and mobility challenges. Even if they live in familiar surroundings, living alone can have an impact on their mental and physical wellbeing.
But the good news is that there are tools that can help them feel more independent and create safer living conditions in their own home.
Mobility
Seniors experience a decrease in mobility as they age, and most develop muscle weakness, vertigo, and arthritis. These can make simple activities such as walking difficult, especially in small spaces such as toilets and bathrooms.
The bathroom is particularly hazardous for seniors due to its slippery surfaces and confined spaces. Fortunately, several tools and equipment can enhance safety and ease of use. Tools that can increase their balance and mobility include handrails, transfer benches, and handicap chairs for showers.
For those who have difficulty standing for extended periods, handicap chairs or benches offer a safe seating option. These can be particularly beneficial for seniors with limited strength or endurance, allowing them to shower comfortably and safely.
Installing grab bars in the shower and near the toilet provides essential support. They help seniors maintain balance and prevent falls when moving in and out of the shower or when sitting and standing from the toilet.
Placing non-slip mats in the shower and bathroom floor helps prevent slips and falls. These mats should be placed in any area where there is the possibility of water spills. They provide extra grip and reduce the risk of accidents on wet surfaces, especially for seniors.
Finally, raised toilet seats make it easier for seniors to sit down and stand up, reducing the strain on their knees and hips. These seats are particularly useful for individuals with arthritis or other joint issues.
Navigating the Home
Aside from the toilet and bath, seniors also face the challenge of moving around their home. From the bedroom to the kitchen, and to their living room, they might find difficulty in walking around and sitting down or moving up and down stairs.
In many cases, they will need walkers and rollators to provide support. Walkers offer stability, while rollators, equipped with wheels, are easier to maneuver and often come with built-in seats for rest.
Some seniors might need to use wheelchairs and scooters, especially if they have severe mobility issues. These devices allow seniors to move around their homes and neighborhoods independently.
Aside from that, using these devices can help them move from one equipment to another with ease. Using a handicap chair in the shower might be easier when they use a walker, which can give them the independence they need.
And when there is a need to go upstairs, stair lifts provide a safe way to navigate between floors without the risk of falling. These are also easier to use if they have these other devices.
Living Alone is Still Possible for Seniors
While aging in place is a preferred choice for many seniors, it comes with unique challenges, particularly related to mobility and safety. But with the right equipment and devices, seniors can maintain their independence and enjoy a safer, more comfortable living environment.
And even if they move to an elderly care facility, these devices can still make them feel independent, especially when they need support in the simple actions they used to be able to do in their younger years.
