Simple solutions to safe, uncluttered living areas.

Needs change as you care for a loved one; whether in their home or yours. It can be overwhelming to maintain a safe, uncluttered environment. Here are five simple ways to make living areas more enjoyable for everyone in the household.

Actions depend on several factors:
Is the person you are caring for confined to a room or the entire home? What about their mobility; move on their own? With a walker? Wheelchair?

Critical easy to-do list for every family. For this article we will assume an elderly person is able to move around on his/her own with some assistance from walker or chair.

#1 FLOORS: Are they easy to navigate or are they slippery or rough? Did you remove any area (aptly called throw) rugs. Do they have appropriate footwear, not slippery soles, etc.?

#2 FURNITURE: Are there small tables, plants or other items that would be easily tipped over or tripped on when one is going to the bathroom or kitchen? What about shelving units near the traffic area? Are they top heavy? Securely in place?

#3 LAMPS & ELECTRONICS: Are lamps easy to reach and turn on and off? Is the phone in reach, if applicable? Can they turn on the radio or television? Is the traffic area clear of cords?

#4 PERSONAL NEEDS: Is there a small tray or table for books and personal needs within reach? Does your loved one have access to water or have a pitcher and water cup handy? Is a box of tissue or some paper towels?

#5 MIRRORS: Do they enjoy seeing themselves in the mirror? Or does their reflection in the mirror bother them? (My mother enjoyed the mirrors, others may be frightened by the images they see or the movement as they pass by.)

Caring for others is a lifetime learning experience. Small things that we never even consider can be overwhelming to someone who is ill or elderly.

Another note on keeping others comfortable as you care for them: sit a spell in their chair. Seriously. One day I sat in Mother’s chair to rest a bit from cleaning. I was shocked to realize how uncomfortable it was. It looked just fine but the cushions were worn and back support was nil. A new chair was ordered right away. Take time to sit where they sit; look at what they see everyday. How can you improve their environment?

Have a great week; let me hear from you soon.

Hugs,

Have you checked out my articles in the Springfield Writer’s Guild Anthology yet? You’ll enjoy Creative Collections.