Declining mobility and vision make elderly people prone to living risks right in their own homes. Therefore, choosing and arranging suitable furniture not only ensures maximum safety but also brings a comfortable and independent living space for grandparents and parents.
Choose furniture with a suitable height
Elderly people often have difficulty standing up and sitting down in low positions. Priority should be given to beds, sofas and dining tables and chairs with moderate height, cushions to the knee level so that standing up is not strenuous. Avoid flat chairs or sofas that are too sunken.
Prioritize soft, rounded, and angular materials
Seats with soft seat cushions and backrests help lift the spine, reduce pressure on the back and hips. You should choose furniture that is wrapped in felt, leather or rounded corners to minimize the risk of injury if accidentally hit.
Install a sturdy handrail in the toilet
The bathroom area always has a high risk of slipperiness. Attaching a load-bearing handrail next to the toilet and the standing bath area will create a safe support.
Use anti-slip flooring material
The bathroom and kitchen area are 2 places that are frequently exposed to water. Priority should be given to floor tiles with high roughness, limiting glossy ceramic tiles. At the same time, equip additional anti-slip rubber carpets at the entrance or in front of the sink.
Optimizing the lighting system
The eyesight of the elderly is significantly reduced, so walkways, stairs and bedrooms need to be clearly illuminated, without causing glare. Natural light should be combined to the maximum during the day and night sensory night lights should be arranged to make travel safer.
Lower the height of cabinets and shelves
Stepping up or placing a chair to get things up high is very dangerous. Kitchen cabinets, bookshelves and shelves should be arranged at eye level or within reach of nature, helping the elderly easily get necessary items without worrying about falling.
