Arthritis affects a large number of people living in the United States. By 2025, it is expected that 67 million adults would have been diagnosed with arthritis. While there is no cure for this ailment, it can definitely be contained. Treatments have improved greatly over time, and many patients have been able to manage them successfully. Aside from medications, making your home a better environment to live in with arthritis is crucial. Here are some home safety guidelines for seniors living with arthritis.
Make Stairs and Hallways Arthritis-Friendly
Installing a ramp or lift in the home is recommended for seniors whose knees and hips are badly afflicted. If this is not possible, there are numerous alternative strategies to improve a senior’s safety while getting home health care. Accidents can be avoided by using anti-slip mats on the stairwell and corridor. Hallways and stairwells should be well-lit and free of any clutter that could cause an accident. To prevent slips and falls, throw rugs should be avoided and fastened carpets installed. Guard rails should be placed on the stairwells so that elderly can support themselves when ascending and descending. When walking up and down the stairs, seniors should be urged to use walking sticks or support themselves with the rails provided.
Make the Kitchen Arthritis-Friendly
People with arthritis frequently have difficulty navigating the process of food preparation. There are various methods to make the kitchen in your house safe and comfortable for elders. The first step is to replace heavy cooking utensils with lighter ones. To avoid excessive stretching or bending, which is often accompanied by pain, keep the most frequently used goods on the counter or within reach. These modifications will go a long way toward assisting elders in living in peace as they age.
Make the Floors Arthritis-Friendly
Adults with arthritis are more prone to falling. Postural instability, decreased muscle strength, joint pain, and weariness are all contributing factors. Consider adding suitable flooring if your current flooring is slick. One factor to consider while making your decision is if the floors will give a non-slip surface when wet. Is it easy to walk around with a cane or wheelchair on the floor surface? Is there any cushioning or shock absorption on the floor in the event of a fall? With this in mind, you should be able to select flooring for your loved one that is both pleasant and safe.
Make Arthritis Patients’ Manual Labor Easy
Use apparatus that will limit the senior’s movement. Electric mixers and can openers, vacuum cleaners, and automatic toilet bowl cleaners are just a few examples. Invest in other available devices that will prevent your loved ones from reaching, bending, or stooping.
Living with Arthritis
We must always protect the safety of our senior loved ones, especially if they have arthritis. The suggestions above will go a long way toward making their house more pleasant and safe. If you or a loved one is thinking about moving into a senior living community, TerraBella Lake Norman can assist you with arthritis. Our team of healthcare specialists is trained to help patients who suffer from arthritis by managing their pain and providing therapy sessions in the comfort of their apartment homes. Call us now to schedule a tour!
