As more Americans are staying home longer, our ideas about aging in place are evolving. It’s no longer a matter of “Is this possible?” But rather a series of decisions about how to keep them safe, comfortable, and happy in the long run! As a local security provider, we have a few tips to share that will make protecting your loved ones easier.
Think about Mobility
If your family member has been in the same house for years, then a few updates are in order. When aging in place, mobility is always a primary concern because our needs change so much over the years. Try to install small measures at first that will be there when they need them—without changing the flow of the house too much. A bench by the doorway is great if they need to sit down to remove their shoes or place grocery bags on the way in. Don’t forget about conveniently placed stools in the kitchen. They should be taller than your average chair, in case your loved one just wants to rest or lean against them as they’re preparing meals.
In the bathroom, you’ll probably need to make a few more adjustments. Grab bars are a great preventative measure, even if they’re still young and mobile. No matter what age you are, you can always slip! For this same reason, consider replacing bathtubs with walk-in showers and adding a few nonslip mats in key locations.
Ask us about our medical alert systems, too. These discrete tools allow someone aging in place to access immediate help, if he/she needs it. Our advanced monitoring services can even follow typical behavior patterns to alert you if anything’s amiss. So, if your loved one is in the bathroom a little too long. Or they usually exercise at 3:00 PM every day, yet they start to become more stationary, you’ll know about it right away.
For Security Purposes
Even in the safest of neighborhoods, it never hurts to increase security. Especially if your loved one is aging in place alone. Installing security cameras around the outside with an integrated system will allow you to keep an eye on things remotely. You might even be able to lookout for potential hazards like snow, ice, or other debris in the walkway.
Utilizing a smart locking system could be beneficial, too. It gives you the option to provide remote access to visitors who need to come in when your loved one is having mobility problems. In cases of cognitive impairment, like Alzheimer’s and/or dementia, it can give you an immediate solution if they forget their keys. There’s also the matter of being notified if/when they leave unexpectedly. So, if they’re having a problem, you can be there to help faster.
Some medical alert devices also function as GPS systems that allow you to find your loved one should something happen. While these are all services you hope you don’t need to utilize, they’re important considerations for any family helping a loved one aging in place. At ARM Security Systems, we can make recommendations based on the situation at hand. But, ultimately, you have the option to pick and choose what works best for you. Whatever you need to protect your loved one(s), we’re happy to provide!