When Elderly Guests Visit
Graduations. Summer reunions. Thanksgiving. A milestone celebration. Baby- or pet-sitting. There are any number of occasions that bring elders, whether family members or dear friends, into your home for a weekend visit or longer. What could be better than sharing your well-maintained, problem-free home with them! Odds are, you have already planned for any dietary preferences, stocked your refrigerator accordingly, and encouraged them to help themselves.
While many more elders are fit and in good health these days, your extra attention to their comfort and safety while under your roof will be much appreciated. Ask in advance about specific needs. Consider these tips:
- Lighting that improves visibility in hallways, stairs and bathrooms is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of accidents. You might consider motion-sensor lights in key locations like steps, especially for nighttime trips to the bathroom. Labels on light switches are another considerate choice.
- Flooring. Take a tour of your house in advance and address any potential problematic areas like slippery tiles or small, unanchored rugs on polished floors. Clear any obstacles in halls or walkways.
- Bathrooms. Provide extra soap, toilet paper, toiletries, and towels. Install a temporary grab bar or shower seat to make bathing safer and more comfortable. Non-slip mats needed here, in the shower and on the floor.
- Provide comfortable seating in the guest bedroom, good reading lights, drapes or shades that are easy to operate, and convenient storage for clothing. Open shelving vs. a chest of drawers. Extra hangers. Maybe an extra blanket or wrap if you prefer your home on the cooler side.
- See our blog post on The Crucial Role of Handrail and Stair Inspection.This is another way we aim to stay one step ahead to ensure the comfort and safety of your family and guests in your home. Join the many homeowners in your area who are using the No Worry Home annual preventive maintenance program.