You might need to adopt a mobile-friendly home for various reasons, and these can happen naturally as you age. The changes needed can be relatively minor, or they might require renovation. However, they will make your life, or the lives of relatives, much easier. From experiencing more slips and falls to bathroom issues, here are some signs you can’t ignore.
Climbing Stairs is Becoming a Challenge
When you have joint pain, balance problems and even reduced muscle mass, getting up the stairs can become very challenging and painful. If so, Googling “stairlifts near me” might not be a bad idea, as prolonged strain will only make your ongoing problems worse. Why would you do that to yourself? If navigating the stairs is becoming dangerous, something like a handrail is an easy but reliable modification, but an elevator or stairlift will provide much more support.
Experiencing More Slips, Trips and Falls
It is common to fall more when you are getting older, or when you have specific medical conditions such as weakened joints and muscles, and these can present in your mid-30s and early 40s. As such, they can’t be ignored because they can become pretty dangerous. For example, you might find it challenging to navigate uneven flooring. Removing items like rugs and clutter will help, and perhaps it’s time to think about installing some grab bars in hallways.
Adopt a Mobility-Friendly Home if Access is Difficult
According to the latest survey figures, around 1 million Americans over the age of 65 (7%) are using a wheeled mobility device for everyday tasks. If you find yourself needing a scooter or wheelchair to get around, you will need to make some changes to your home, such as adding ramps and widening hallways. This can also be a great way to help your parents as they get older, as these relatively simple changes will help them maintain a level of independence.
The Bathroom Has Become Hazardous
The bathroom is probably the most inconvenient place to need assistance because we all need privacy when in there. However, the bathroom is also among the most hazardous when you are experiencing mobility issues. The slippery surfaces and physical effort of just washing yourself can become dangerous. If you feel this is the case, then you might need some changes. A walk-in shower can be a game-changer, and you may need toilet adaptations and grab bars.
It’s Harder to Get Up from a Chair or Bed
Mobility issues can get so bad that just getting out of bed in the morning can become a massive and painful challenge. It’s easy to dismiss joint pain and stiffness in the morning, but it is a sign that something isn’t right with your body, and you could need medical assistance. However, issues like arthritis can be omnipresent, and it might be time to make some changes. An adjustable bed is an excellent but pricey option, but reclining chairs will make a difference.
Summary
If climbing the stairs is getting harder, you might need to adopt a mobile-friendly home to make things easier. Another sign is challenges getting in and around the home. However, you may also find that just getting out of bed or up from a chair is getting more difficult and painful.
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