The kitchen is generally said to be the heart of the home, but it can also be a challenging environment for seniors. This is because seniors often lose mobility and strength over the years, as well as sensory changes that make navigating the kitchen more difficult. This doesn’t mean seniors will need to avoid the room altogether, not with home care assistance by their side. A senior-friendly kitchen can be created with the assistance and support of loved ones.
Prioritize Safety
In a senior-friendly kitchen, safety comes first. Here are some important adjustments that might be considered:
- Slip-Resistant Flooring: Instead of slippery tiles, the use of slip-resistant materials such as vinyl or cork is a good idea. If replacing the flooring is not an option, family members can consider installing safe, non-slip mats in high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
- Eliminate Sharp Corners: Rounded edges on counters and cabinets reduce the likelihood of bumps, scratches, and bruises. This is key as seniors’ skin is often more susceptible to these things.
- Proper Lighting: Bright, well-placed lighting is required throughout the home, but especially in the kitchen. For instance, under-cabinet lighting can highlight workspaces to increase safety, while motion-activated lighting helps seniors navigate at night.
- Fire Prevention: If it’s time to upgrade the stove, family members should explore an induction cooktop, which cools quickly and reduces the risk of burns. It’s also important to put a senior-friendly fire extinguisher in the kitchen and ensure they know how to use it.
- Easy Access to Emergency Help: Seniors should have access to a phone in their kitchen for emergencies. This may mean installing a landline if they tend to leave their cell phone in other areas of the home.
Focus on Accessibility
Accessibility guarantees that seniors can move around and utilize the kitchen comfortably. Some modifications that might be considered include lowering the countertops, installing pull-out shelves and drawers, or choosing appliances with front-mounted controls and clear labeling. Another thing that might not be thought of is installing single-lever or touch-activated faucets, which make their use much easier for seniors with arthritis.
Ergonomic Design
Seniors with home care assistance often have help in the kitchen, but focusing on things like ergonomic design can make the space more welcoming when seniors are using it on their own.
Additionally, since home care assistance providers have good knowledge of the space and how seniors might use it, they can offer suggestions that work best. For instance, storing frequently used items at waist or shoulder height means that seniors don’t have to bend or reach.
Also, it’s important to store heavier items, such as pots and pans, in lower cabinets or drawers. Last but not least, seating is also important, especially if seniors still enjoy cooking. The right seating supports their back and gives them a place to rest while doing prep work.
Technology and Smart Solutions
Family members might also consider adding modern technologies that can improve safety and convenience in the kitchen. This might include smart appliances with voice controls or timers for safer use or appliances with automatic shutoff. As mentioned above, motion-activated lights and faucets are also a great idea.
Creating a senior-friendly kitchen involves balancing safety, accessibility, and comfort. Family members can utilize home care assistance to make sure they’re incorporating strategic changes that encourage independence and improve seniors quality of life.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Assistance in Coronado, CA, please contact the caring staff at A Passion for Care today. Call (858) 798-5005
A Passion for Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Rancho Bernardo, Encinitas, Oceanside, Rancho Santa Fe, Point Loma, and surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.patrickafinn.com/blog/aging-in-place-11-design-tips-for-a-senior-friendly-kitchen
- https://www.houzz.com/magazine/10-ways-to-design-a-kitchen-for-aging-in-place
- https://www.mrhandyman.com/blog/aging-in-place-kitchen-design/
- https://dailycaring.com/6-affordable-ways-to-create-a-senior-friendly-kitchen/
Making the transition to a completely new industry brought the opportunity to learn and grow, which continues still today. Pat studied Gerontology in San Diego State University’s certificate program and became licensed as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), a Home Health Aide (HHA), and completed the California Certification Program for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCCFE) as a Certified Administrator. She presented workshops at Aging in America Conference four years in a row and served as Chair of the San Diego Regional Home Care Council 2019-2020 and was the education board member for several years. More recently, Pat became a Certified Senior Advisor and was a San Diego Business Journal “50 over 50 2022 Women of Influence Honoree”.
Pat and her husband Roland have lived outside San Diego in the San Pasqual Valley for over three decades. She has two children who are grown professionals and three grandchildren. Pat enjoys traveling to, and visits from, family and friends throughout the year. While at home in San Pasqual Valley, she and Roland enjoy peaceful views and exploring the surrounding valleys.
- 5 Reasons Why Your Senior Parent Needs In-Home Care - December 20, 2024
- Tips to Create a Senior-Friendly Kitchen - December 10, 2024
- How Is Hospice Care Different for Alzheimer’s Patients? - November 20, 2024
