Modifications, large and small, may be the icing on the cake if you want a safe and comfortable environment.
A friend of mine fell several times walking from her front door to the mailbox. She finally admitted that something had to be done.
As people age, dexterity and balance typically decrease, but a few simple “modifications” can save you from a lot of grief.
Unless you live in an apartment or a condominium you need to think about where you are parking your car, how far you have to walk to get to your mailbox, and how easy/difficult it is to move your trash bins to the curb.
Yard work and gardening are therapeutic and often the last things you want to give up. You don’t have to, but you want to know how to proceed. Dress appropriately, no flip flops please, and splurge on a set of ergonomic tools. New pruning shears and a retractable garden hose should be a must at every age.
Walkways around your house should be clear of debris, well lit, and in good condition. Repairing a worn asphalt driveway or evening out broken bricks could save you from the “big one.”
You don’t have to be old to appreciate that you have to be able to see what you are doing. Something as simple as motion detector lights or those little solar stick panels can save you from falling on your face.
Another death trap or I should say “fall trap” is how safe are you just getting to your front door. If you have steps to navigate you might consider a ramp or at least sturdy railings. Something, anything, to steady yourself against when fumbling for your keys.
What about the doorknob? Experts recommend replacing doorknobs with lever style handles if you have any type of hand issues. More techie? Try a keypad or other special smart locks.
A bench or chair in the entry, outside or just inside the door, to place packages or offer a place to sit and rest for a few minutes. No shame.
Don’t tune out the idea of a home monitoring system. If nothing else, family members will feel a sense of ease if they can check on you remotely. Don’t be a prisoner in your own home.
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