As your parents grow older, they may (probably will) face mobility challenges and will most likely need to have more assistance with their day to day tasks. For those planning to Age In Place, one of the most important rooms to think about modifying in their home is their bedroom. In this blog post, I want to take a look at at a few different modifications that some consider making to the bedroom to make it safer and more accessible for their aging parents.
1. Replace the bed
If your parent(s) is anything like mine, then trying to get them to change anything in their home takes almost an act of God. But, the older your folks get, the more problems they may have getting in and out of a bed that is too low or too high. A bed that is too low makes it harder for them to stand up from the edge, especially if they are overweight or have bad knees.
On the other hand, a bed that is too high can be difficult to climb into and cause serious injury if they fall out of it. Bed height is important and the new adjustable beds generally only offer raising and lowering the head or foot of the bed and not the whole bed itself. I’ve written about how to know the best height for a bed here.
2. Install grab bars
Adding grab bars at specific spots in the bedroom or the master bathroom can provide support for aging parents when they may need it most when changing their clothes or bathing. It goes without saying that any grab bars should be securely mounted to the wall in the studs and be able to support the full body weight of the individual.
3. Improve lighting
Our eyesight tends to deteriorate as we get older and many of the elderly have issues like glaucoma, cataracts among other diagnoses. Naturally this can make it more difficult to make their way through a dimly lit room even though they feel they know their routes. To make sure the bedroom is well-lit caregivers (and the elderly) should consider adding motion activated lighting to help prevent potential falls.
There are many different types and styles of lighting that could be used. The typical night light is generally a go to unit. But, there are other options like those that are put under the bed that are activated when a person gets out of bed.
4. Clear clutter
A big problem with many seniors is the accumulated possessions of many years. In addition, many seniors tend to keep things like newspapers and magazines that they mean to return to but soon forget about. With that said, a cluttered bedroom can be dangerous for anyone, but especially for aging parents who may have difficulty seeing or maneuvering around objects. Make sure to keep the bedroom tidy and free of clutter, and consider removing any unnecessary furniture that may be obstruct paths or just crowd the room
5. Upgrade the flooring
If the carpeting is old it could contribute to falls and it may need to be replaced with a lower pile that does not have any wrinkles in it. A deeper carpet or even a carpet that has thick padding can be a trip hazard and make it difficult for those who use a cane or walker. Some consider replacing carpeting with hardwood or another smooth surface that is easier to maneuver on but this may make the floor colder which seniors may not like.
7. Use a bedside commode
As we age, getting up in the night to relieve ourselves becomes more frequent. In addition, because of medications and weaker muscles, it may be difficult for seniors to “hold it” while at the same time struggling to get to the bathroom in a darkened room. For aging parents who have difficulty getting to the bathroom at night, a bedside commode can provide a safe and convenient alternative.
8. Consider a hospital bed
For aging parents with mobility challenges, chronic health conditions, or significant postural changes, a hospital bed may be a better option than a traditional bed. Hospital beds can be adjusted to different positions, making it easier to get in and out of bed and reducing the risk of falls, and make it easier for caregivers to help their care recipients into and out of the bed.
9. Raise the toilet seat
This suggestion is similar to the notion of the appropriate bed height we’ve already discussed. A low toilet seat can be difficult for aging parents to use, making it harder to get up and down, especially if there are painful joints or some added weight. Consider raising the toilet seat or installing a raised toilet seat to make it more accessible. A bedside commode can be placed over the toilet during the day to provide the proper height.
10. Ensure easy access to essential items
Make sure that essential items such as medication, water, and a phone are within easy reach of the bed. Consider adding a bedside table or organizing items on a shelf for easy access. Placing a basket on the bedside table to keep items from being pushed onto the floor will also help keep important items separated from less important items.
Conclusion
Modifying a bedroom for aging parents can improve their safety, comfort, and overall quality of life. From replacing the bed, getting a bed rail, to upgrading the bedding, there are many modifications that can be made to ensure that their bedroom is a safe and welcoming space. By taking the time to assess their needs and make the necessary modifications, you can help your aging parents maintain their independence and enjoy their home for years to come.
It is also important to ensure that the modifications are made with the safety of caregivers in mind. For example, if a hospital bed is being used, it is important to ensure that there is enough space around the bed for caregivers to maneuver and provide care.
It’s important to remember that modifying a bedroom for aging parents is just one aspect of ensuring their safety and well-being. Regular check-ins, support with daily tasks, and access to medical care are all important factors in helping aging parents maintain their independence and quality of life.
In conclusion, modifying a bedroom for aging parents is an important step in ensuring their safety and comfort. By making modifications such as replacing the bed, installing grab bars, and improving lighting, you can help your aging parents maintain their independence and enjoy their home for years to come.
Bryan Williams
Physical Therapist
is a licensed therapist with near 30 years of professional experience treating a diverse patient population in a multitude of settings. With simple strategies, he educates and empowers his clients with simple strategies to help them move better and with less pain.