by Jon Pearce | 29th Jun, 2023 | Health
If you or someone you know has arthritis, the pain, stiffness and swelling can make everyday tasks and navigating the home a challenge. Making adjustments to your home can make the environment more arthritis-friendly to help soothe any aches and pains and make your space safer.
In this article, we will share some of the best ways to adapt your home for safety and comfort.
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- How to adapt your living room for arthritis
- How to adapt your kitchen for arthritis
- How to convert your bathroom to a mobility bathroom
- Incorporate these arthritis aids into your home
How to adapt your living room for arthritis
If mobility is an issue for you, changing the layout of your living space can make your life dramatically easier:
- Upgrade to sturdier furniture that has high backs and arms, so you can lean on them for support when you are moving around the living room.
- Install handrails and other arthritis aids for any level changes to help you manoeuvre from one space to another while putting as little pressure as possible on your joints.
- Keep floors clutter-free without any cables or objects in areas you could trip over them or have to step over.
- Place your daily essentials within easy reach.
- Purchase heavier chairs and furniture to ensure they are sturdier on the ground and will not topple over easily (stick to low cupboards and drawers to reduce the risk of injury should they fall).
- Reduce clutter and create more space in between furniture to prevent the risks of trips and falls.
How to adapt your kitchen for arthritis
You will probably use items in your kitchen multiple times a day, and you can make your life easier by placing objects within easy-to-reach areas.
- Consider lowering cupboards so you do not have to stretch up to reach items.
- Only fill your cupboards and fridge/freezer with essentials. The fewer food items you have, the less you need to stretch and move things around to reach what you need.
- Purchase ergonomically designed kitchen tools that specifically suit people with arthritis—such as knives—to limit strain on your joints.
- Replace heavy cookware with lighter alternatives for less weight to lift.
- Keep appliances within reach on the counter to prevent you from bending, reaching or stretching into cabinets.
- Buy pre-chopped fruit and vegetables to limit the use of knives for less strain on your wrists. Alternatively, invest in a food processor to chop ingredients for you.
- Purchase electric kitchen tools, such as a tin opener, to reduce how much physical work is required of you.
- Switch to smaller, lighter items that are easier to lift and open (such as washing powder).
- Consider the material and design of food packets (for example, plastic packages require wrist strength to pull open compared to cardboard).
- Invest in a trolley to transport food from the kitchen to the dining room without having to grip plates and mugs.
- Choose mugs with two handles, making it easier to grip for even weight distribution.
- Purchase a washing-up bowl with a drainer built in, so you can empty the water out of the bowl without having to lift it.
- Consider handheld electric tools, as they are less cumbersome to operate and move.
- Ring-pull tins are much easier to open and do not require a tin opener.
- Kettle tippers allow you to pour hot water into a mug without picking up the appliance.
- Have a kitchen stool to hand, so you can rest if you are preparing food in the kitchen for extended periods.
- Upgrade utensils to ones made out of silicone and with thick grips as it is lightweight and easy to handle for those with joint arthritis mainly found in their hands and wrist.
- Faucet grips make it easier to turn on the water without requiring much physical strength.
How to convert your bathroom to a mobility bathroom
Bathrooms can be a dangerous place for anyone (have you ever nearly slipped in the shower or bath?). But if you or someone you love has arthritis, this room may require an update to make items easily accessible and improve safety.
- Use a seat in the shower and install handrails for you to grip onto, making bathroom daily routines manageable for those with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Keep non-slip mats by the toilet, shower/bath and sink to soak up any water splashes immediately.
- Install holders in the shower at the right height to prevent you from bending over or stretching to reach toiletries.
- Consider soap rather than bottled toiletries. Plastic bottles require twisting/flipping the lid to open and close them, whereas soap is more accessible and lighter.
- Purchase a highboy toilet seat if bending down causes too much pain/pressure.
- Use a towel warmer to keep your body warm as you get out of the shower. Extreme temperature fluctuations can put stress on the joints.
- Swap out round knobs on doors for flat handles, as they are easier to push open if you have arthritis in your hands or wrists.
- Upgrade to hands-free dispensers to wash your hands and body, eliminating the need to pick up heavy bottles and twist open caps or press pumps.
- Use a long-handled brush in the shower rather than a loofah to make it easier to clean your body without stretching or twisting.
- An electric toothbrush is easier on the wrists than a manual toothbrush.
Make adjustments to your bathroom routine
Consider these modifications to your bathroom routine, so you are more comfortable when bathing.
- Use dry shampoo instead of shampooing/conditioning your hair as often to save yourself the time and pain involved with cleaning your hair.
- Take your time when bathing, particularly when moving around in the shower/ bath, if your arthritis is painful. Spend extra time soaking your joints for more time to help reduce any soreness.
- Bathe when someone’s present in your home so, in the event that you fall or need assistance, someone is there to help.
- Keep medications and a first aid kit nearby and easy to access daily or in the event of an emergency.
Incorporate these arthritis aids into your home
Your home is your haven, and these tips can help to make your space more arthritis-friendly.
Keep warm
A warm, dry environment will not aggravate arthritis like a cold, damp space will. Most people with arthritis find that damp, cold environments make symptoms worse.
- Increase the temperature on the thermostat to higher than you would usually have it, especially in winter, to prevent temperature fluctuations.
- Aim to keep a consistent temperature throughout the home, as moving from a warm room into a cold bathroom can antagonise arthritis.
Make lighting and heating units more accessible
Lighting and heating controls should be easily accessible to prevent you from straining yourself to reach/operate the systems.
- Position the switches/controls at a height that is easy to reach without stretching.
- Raise/lower sockets so you do not need to bend down or stretch to switch them on/off.
- Consider touch-sensitive or motion-sensitive lights.
- Install motion-sensitive lighting in the landing, hallway and on stairs, enabling you to see easily when it is dark.
Conclusion
Ease arthritis by making the above adjustments to your home. Consider renewing furniture and everyday items with more ergonomic alternatives to eliminate as much strain as possible on your joints. We also suggest upgrades, so toiletries and daily necessities are more accessible with as little pressure as possible on your body.
by Jon Pearce | 22nd Jun, 2023 | Walk-in showers
As one of the activities we take part in daily, one of the most important things to consider when bathing is safety. If you currently have a bath or shower that is not quite meeting your individual needs and requirements, it might be time to consider a disability-friendly wet room.
Many bathrooms simply are not accessible for disabled or elderly people. You may find that the sink or toilet is too low, that you require more assistance when stepping in and out of your bath or shower, or maybe the flooring has started to exacerbate the risks of trips and falls.
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Bathing can start to become more challenging with mobility issues and a struggle when it comes to embracing complete independence and being able to feel safe, as well as comfortable when bathing. Due to this, disabled wet rooms are becoming a more popular choice to assist with all sorts of issues.
Unsure as to whether a wet room is the right choice for you and your home? We understand it can be daunting. So, to help you make the right decision, we have put together a helpful guide.
- What is a disabled wet room?
- How can a disabled wet room make bathing easier?
- They provide inclusive access
- Adds a modern touch
- Spacious and low maintenance
- No size is off limits
- You can create a unique space
- Additions that could make your disabled wet room feel bespoke
What is a disabled wet room?
It is important to identify the definition of a wet room to help you understand if it would best suit your needs when it comes to bathing.
Similar to disabled walk-in baths and walk-in showers, wet rooms for elderly people and disabled users are designed to meet the individual’s specific wants and needs. This includes both the size and shape of the wet room as well as the layout – depending on your existing bathroom space.
Wet rooms are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a wholly unique experience for bathing, which makes them a popular choice for both elderly users and those with mobility issues.
How can a disabled wet room make bathing easier?
There are a variety of different ways in which the installation of a disabled wet room can enhance your current bathing situation. To help explore the option, we have highlighted the main advantages as follows:
They provide inclusive access
If one of the reasons you are seeking to upgrade your bathroom from a shower cubicle or bath is due to issues with getting in and out safely, this is where a disabled wet room can really help.
Not only does it eliminate the potential hazard of a shower tray or bath panel, but it can also eliminate the need for shower doors. This makes it the ideal choice for wheelchair users and those who require a carer or helper when bathing.
You can also choose to install further safety features and accessories to assist in the overall comfort and safety of your bathing time.
Adds a modern touch
Wet rooms have advanced over time, and typical wet rooms for elderly and disabled people are now much more contemporary in their design. Offering up a whole host of different designs to suit both your taste and your individual bathroom needs. In the same way that your bedroom and kitchen are designed to accommodate modern living, so should your bathroom area.
Wet rooms can provide a spacious-looking bathing area that introduces both safety and a little luxury into your living space. This is another reason modern disabled wet rooms are becoming a more popular choice.
Spacious and low maintenance
The style of a disability wet room is to make the space feel large and inviting. Those that have a smaller bathroom space need not worry, as there are designs and features available to help make the space appear larger than it is. And as wet rooms tend to come with fewer features, you can move about more freely and comfortably.
Another great advantage of a wet room is how little work is required when it comes to their maintenance. Because there are fewer features – from shower trays and screens to wall-hung accessories, there is simply less to clean. This is another reason wet rooms are a great choice for the elderly and people who have mobility issues.
No size is off limits
One of the great things about a disabled wet room is that any bathroom can accommodate such a choice, depending on your plans for a refurbishment. For example, if you wanted to completely remove an existing bath, you can do so and install a disabled wet room in its place. Not only will this open up your bathing space but it can also provide more room.
There will be various factors to consider with a smaller space. If your other bathroom features are close together, you can choose to install a shower screen to ensure a completely shower-proof area. This means that your other bathroom features stay dry as well as further eradicating the chance of any slips and falls.
They can be designed in such a way as to provide a modern disabled wet room, so you need not worry about the overall aesthetic if a shower screen needs to be installed.
You can create a unique space
If you look forward to your daily bathing routine, the installation of a disabled wet room can enhance the experience, as you can create your bespoke bathing area.
Not only can you choose from a selection of different flooring and tiling options, but there are various accessories to assist you with any bathing needs you may have.
From grab rails to fold-up seats, a disabled wet room can be made to completely accommodate your requirements, as well as an aesthetically pleasing space so you can focus on that all-important relaxation time.
Additions that could make your disabled wet room feel bespoke
As mentioned in the previous point, there are various extras you can add to create a unique bathing space. Showers for disabled users can be tricky, as it can be difficult to get in and out of the dedicated bathing space if you have mobility issues.
In these cases, there are additional features which can help to make your showering experience easier, safer, and more accessible:
Grab Rails
Grab bars can be installed in disabled wet rooms to help provide stability when standing. Designed in various ways to assist the user, you can choose from horizontal rails to help lower you into a seated position, as well as vertical rails to help provide that extra support when showering.
Modern disabled wet rooms usually offer neutral tones and minimalist tiles and flooring options. For a particularly contemporary feel, you can install sleek grab bars that also function as towel rails or modern toilet roll holders that double up as grab bars.
With these particular types of disabled wet room layouts, you ensure additional support without the extra clutter, as well as maintaining accessibility.
Shower Seats
Also known as a shower bench, this type of seating can come in a range of styles and is an excellent additional safety feature if you require a little extra seated support when showering.
Whether you choose to have yours fixed to the wall or built into the unit itself, these types of seats can assist the user with various mobility issues. Either static or mobile, shower seats usually come with rubber cups at the bottom of the legs to prevent any slipping.
There are various designs to choose from to suit both your requirements and your aesthetics. From padded shower seats and curved edge seats to straight shower benches and drop-down options, you will need to shop around and work out which one is best suited to your needs and personal style.
Flooring options
Wet rooms are installed with non-slip flooring, but that does not make them all equal. The most suitable flooring materials are porcelain or mosaic tiles, but you can opt for a little luxury should you so require.
To enhance a contemporary feel in your wet room, you can choose to use a marble effect or stone slab flooring. As one of the more luxurious non-slip flooring materials, they can help to create a truly bespoke look in a modern disabled wet room as well helping to mitigate against any slips and falls.
To ensure maximum water drainage, you can also opt for sloping floors. These can be particularly useful for completely open, walk-in disabled wet rooms.
Bespoke lighting
An often overlooked aspect but an important one to consider when installing a disability wet room is the lighting you choose.
There are two options to consider – cool or warm bathroom lighting. The right choice can help to improve the look and feel of your mobility bathroom and help to accentuate the features and additional fittings you choose to install.
Cool bathroom lighting is usually chosen in white suites for a bright finish, whereas warm tones are often selected to create a softer and cosier feel. With modern disabled wet rooms, you can choose to have dimmed bulbs installed or use simple, natural lighting to create your unique atmosphere.
by Jon Pearce | 17th May, 2023 | Walk-in showers
Are you ready to reform your bathroom? Updating your shower to a digital option provides a host of new functions to make showering more pleasurable and can even save you money in the long run. Here’s everything you need to know about digital showers and some considerations to make if you decide to purchase a digital shower.
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- What is a digital shower?
- How does a digital shower work?
- Features of a digital shower
- Advantages of a digital shower
- The difference between digital and smart showers
What is a digital shower?
A digital electric shower works similarly to mixer showers by mixing both cold and hot water to reach the user’s ideal temperature, providing much more accuracy.
Digital showers include a digital thermostat to offer the user precise temperature control within a single degree. Using technology, the water temperature is consistently monitored during use to maintain the set warmth or cold level.
How does a digital shower work?
Digital showers are connected to both a cold and hot water supply and can be installed in any wet room or walk-in shower. When you switch the shower on and set your temperature, a wireless or wired signal is sent to the built-in thermostat, where it makes an immediate adjustment.
The water supply then blends appropriately to release the requested temperature through the shower head. This means you don’t need to make any adjustments while you’re showering.
The good news is that you don’t need to connect a digital shower to a Wi-Fi network, as they use an independent connection. This typically makes installation much easier and achievable in all households.
Features of a digital shower
Digital showers come with an array of functions, depending on the model you choose and your budget. Below are the most common features you can expect.
1. Thermostat
Every digital shower will have this, and it allows you to control the temperature via the panel, remote control or on some occasions, smartphone app. The built-in thermostat allows you to choose the exact temperature, so the water warmth doesn’t fluctuate.
2. LED display
Digital showers aim to simplify and customise your shower experience, so you’ll find them without bulky buttons and streamlined with a stylish LED display that’s easy to operate at the touch of a button.
3. Profile settings
If multiple people regularly use the shower in your home, a digital shower with multiple user profiles allows you to set the desired shower length and water temperature for each person. Then, when it’s your turn to shower, you select your profile and don’t have to modify all the settings every time.
4. Multiple outlets
For some people, showering is more than just a chore; it’s a spa-like experience at home. Many digital showers include more than one shower head outlet to offer a variety of settings based on power and water direction.
Advantages of a digital shower
Here are some of the main reasons to consider upgrading to a digital shower.
Set your ideal preferences
Showering will become more enjoyable, as you can personalise the temperature, flow and duration pre-sets to suit your preferences. Plus, these showers are easy to operate.
Just select the settings, and the shower will notify you when it’s ready, so you won’t have to make any temperature adjustments while you’re washing. This is great for time-restricted days and for injecting more ease into your daily routine.
Some more advanced digital showers allow you to set up multiple profiles for everyone in the house. This way, everyone gets to enjoy their ideal shower every time without having to modify settings each time they want to shower. So you won’t have any nasty temperature surprises when you first step in the shower.
Save water
Digital showers can be an environmentally friendly choice, as they can save you water and, thus, money on your energy bills.
You can conveniently pause a digital shower mixer while you’re shampooing your hair to avoid water waste without having to manually power off and on the water. When you continue the water flow, the temperature and power will be the same, so you won’t have to fine-tune the settings again.
Some high-end digital showers have a timer function, so you can set the duration of your shower, and it’ll switch off after this time. This is great for eliminating water waste if you’re prone to showering for too long.
They’re safer
Most digital showers feature a safety mode to consistently monitor the water temperature to prevent scalding. Many are designed to switch off after a certain amount of time to prevent the chances of flooding. This feature is perfect for forgetful minds, especially if you reside alone.
The difference between digital and smart showers
Digital showers aren’t the top of the showering chain; smart showers offer more credible features (which aren’t always beneficial to every user), but here are the core differences between these two shower types to help you decipher between the two.
Voice activation
You can control many devices in your home via voice, and now you can activate your shower with just your voice. This function can add convenience to showering, as you don’t need to have such close proximity to the panel to switch on and off the water. Voice activation can be beneficial if you have reduced mobility, as it eliminates the need for physical touch and movement.
An integrated phone app
You can control a smart shower via an app on your phone. This won’t necessarily add convenience to your life, but it can create a new world of customisation. For example, create profiles to set each user’s shower flow rate, temperature and duration to monitor how much water each person uses.
The app’s dashboard will also display core information relating to water usage and energy costs to help you keep track and make cuts, if necessary.
The future is digital, and that includes all aspects of life, not excluding the bathroom. If you want to step up your shower experience to a digital shower, consider the simplicity of the panel, the must-have features you want and whether you need to make any adjustments to your current shower layout.
We offer a range of digital showers on our website with a range of features that feature a five-year guarantee.
by Jon Pearce | 5th Apr, 2023 | Accessibility
Taking a bath can have a positive impact on mood and well-being. But if you have a disability or limited mobility, access to safe bathing can be problematic. Even if you prefer to have a bath instead of a shower, you might find it difficult to get in and out of the bath safely and confidently.
In addition, carers may be at risk of injury when helping a family member or service user to access the bathtub. Back injuries are a common problem for anyone who helps people with mobility issues to get in and out of the bath.
A specialist accessible bath with door system can help to resolve these issues, allowing you to bathe in comfort and enjoy a long soak in a warm bath.
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- What is a bath with door system?
- How do baths with doors work?
- Access the bath through the low-level step and door
- Close and seal the bath door
- Select water temperature and fill the bath
- Drain and leave
- The benefits of a walk-in bath with door
- Different types of walk-in baths
- Are bath panels with doors practical?
What is a bath with door system?
A bath with an integrated door is a fully accessible unit, which contains a small, watertight door within the side panel. The door can open both inwards or outwards depending on the model. A bath with door system enables a person with a disability or mobility issue to enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a bath, without the risk of trips and falls.
Baths with door systems are available in various styles. These include everything from the small, low-level door in a standard bathtub design to a deep, upright bath with a seat incorporated to aid upright bathing.
Walk-in baths from Mobility Plus are carefully designed to include all of the best safety features, helping to reduce the risk of accidents during bathing and injury to carers or family members.
Add-on features are available, including:
- Grab rails: Fixed to a wall with screws or suction cups, grab rails are used to help people with balance issues to steady themselves as they get in and out of the bath
- Thermostatic taps: Included as standard to give protection against scalding.
- Bathtub fillers: A bathtub filler mixes the hot and cold water to the desired temperature. The temperature remains constant, eliminating the need for adjustment and reducing the risk of the water being too hot or cold.
- Power seats: A power seat raises and lowers a person into the bath, making bathing safe and accessible to people with severe mobility issues or physical disabilities.The unit is secured to the bath floor with suction cups, and the seat rises and falls as required.
All of these features help to provide effective bathing solutions. The most appropriate option will depend on your level of mobility, but they can all help to maintain a sense of independence and dignity. These features also make it easier for carers to implement safe moving and handling practices, helping to reduce the risk of injury.
Did you know? During 2019/20, 68% of state pension age adults were living with a disability or mobility issue, compared to 41% of working age adults?
How do baths with doors work?
Whichever type of walk-in bath unit you choose, they are usually accessed in the following way:
Access the bath through the low-level step and door
Walk-in baths come with varying door heights. You will need to choose one according to your level of mobility. However, stepping in and out of the bath is much easier and safer with a low-level threshold than climbing over the side of the bath and into the water.
Close and seal the bath door
Once inside the bath, you must take care to close the door fully in order to ensure that it is sealed and watertight. The bath seal is the most important element of this type of bath. Making sure that it is secure will remove the risk of water spilling onto the bathroom floor, which could create a potential slip hazard. All of the walk-in baths in our range have a door that opens inwards, making them ideal for bathrooms with limited space.
Select water temperature and fill the bath
With our optional bath filler, you can choose the required water temperature using a rotary dial. That means there is no need to keep adjusting the taps to increase the hot or cold water. Advances in technology mean you can even do this using an app on your mobile phone. Once you’re happy with the temperature, press the start button and allow the water to flow. After that, all you need to do is sit back and relax. A standard bath filler will protect against scalding due to it’s thromostatic valve.
Drain and leave
Once you’ve enjoyed your bath and you’re feeling relaxed, simply drain the bath and exit through the door. Remember to leave your towel at the side before entering, so you can partly dry off as you wait for the water to fully drain.
The benefits of a walk-in bath with door
- Safety for the user: A walk-in bath is safer than a traditional bath. A low threshold reduces the risk of tripping, making it more accessible to people with mobility issues.
- Comfort: Walk-in baths provide an element of comfort and relaxation, especially if you find it difficult to stand in the shower or use a standard bathtub. Walk-in bathtubs have lower entryways and are often deeper than traditional tubs, making it easier to clean your upper body.
- Health: Water has a soothing effect on the body and mind, and a walk-in bath can help to improve overall health in many ways, including:
- Symptom relief. Muscle or joint issues, such as arthritis, diabetes, rheumatism and general muscle or joint pain and stiffness can benefit from the soothing effects of a walk-in tub.
Did you know? 10% of UK adults suffer from arthritis and taking a hot bath can help relieve symptoms?
- Better circulation: Improved overall circulation can lead to increased mobility and less pain.
- Relaxation and stress relief: Lying in water creates a relaxing atmosphere, which in turn can help to improve the quality of your sleep. Additional therapies, such as hydrotherapy, can help to massage and relax tired and aching muscles.
- Therapy: Some of our bath ranges can be used for therapeutic purposes, including chromotherapy. This is the belief that the colours of the spectrum, which permeate the bathtub, can aid in tissue regeneration. Chromotherapy has reportedly helped to reduce swelling, relieve pain and decrease inflammation, as well as reducing recovery times after medical or surgical procedures. Our Hampton Elite range of baths incorporates this therapy into its design.
Different types of walk-in baths
We offer a range of different types of baths with doors. The right choice will depend on your individual requirements and level of mobility.
Full length bath with door
This is identical to a standard bath, but the side is a bath panel with access door. Once you have entered the bath through the access door, the bathing experience is the same as in a traditional bath. Our Leyburn range includes full length baths with doors.
Sit up bath with door
A sit up bath allows you to sit upright while bathing. This removes the need to stand up from a horizontal position when getting out of the bath.
Front or side opening
You can choose to have the access door at the side or at the front, according to the design and layout of your bathroom.
Are bath panels with doors practical?
Baths with doors can transform the lives of people who have previously struggled to access the bath. As we get older, we often feel that we are losing our independence. For some people, this is a worrying prospect. Installing a bath with a door to the bathroom helps people to continue living independently in the comfort of their own home.
A walk-in bath will also aid caregivers to help family members or service users to bathe safely, while also reducing the risk of injury to the bather and carer. The hydrotherapy feature on some baths helps with aches and pains in joints and muscles, providing a relaxing, soothing effect.
In comparison to wet rooms and walk-in showers, the right bath with door system can:
- Improve the bathing experience by helping to maintain independence, dignity, comfort and support
- Reduce the risk of bathroom accidents caused by slips or falls
- Ensure efficient moving and handling for carers assisting with bathing
- Reduce the risk of a musculoskeletal injuries to carers
At Mobility Plus, our range of walk-in baths are designed to suit your needs. A hydrotherapy spa option comes as standard with all of our models, and the non-slip floor keeps you safe every time you bathe.
With our free, no-obligation design and quote service, we can help you decide on a replacement unit, or discuss a complete bathroom redesign to make the space as safe and secure as possible.
Take a look at our full range of walk-in baths or request a free brochure to view all of the options at your leisure.
Whichever product you choose, our walk-in baths will help you to bathe confidently and independently again.
by mobilityplus | 30th Mar, 2023 | Accessibility
If you have been experiencing mobility challenges, you may be in the process of choosing a mobility aid. Introducing a mobility aid to your daily routine can be a fantastic way to increase your independence and add a bit of comfort as you are going about your daily business.
However, choosing a mobility aid can require some consideration. There are many options to choose from, and which one is right for you will depend on your specific mobility struggles as well as the demands of your lifestyle.
Luckily, here at Mobility Plus we have plenty of expertise in helping individuals choose the right mobility aid for their needs. Keep reading to learn more about the choices available and find out which mobility aid is right for you.
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1. Canes
The first port of call for more mild mobility issues will be a cane. Using a cane can provide you with an additional point of support, which can hold up to 25 percent of a person’s body weight.
Using a cane is a great way to increase your stability, particularly if you have one leg that is weaker than the other. If you still want to walk around but need a little extra support, a cane is perfect for you. However, using one does require a little strength in your hand and arm to grip.
There are different options here – if your grip is weaker, you can opt for a horizontal grip cane. Some canes also have a quad base, allowing them to stand upright when not in use. This can be handy in that you don’t have to balance the cane, but it will be a little heavier to carry.
2. Walkers and Rollators
If you are looking for a little extra support, a walker or rollator might be for you. A walker has two or four legs and can support up to 50 percent of body weight. However, the walker must be lifted each time you take a step, requiring more hand and arm strength than a cane.
If this is not a viable option, you could consider a wheeled walker – also called a rollator. These have several wheels on the bottom of the legs and can be pushed along as you walk, rather than being lifted with each step. This makes manoeuvres easier and less tiring. However, if you have balance issues, the wheels may not provide enough stability for your needs.
3. Power Scooters
For those who are finding it difficult to walk long distances, a power scooter might be a better option. There are various models available, both for indoor and outdoor use, as well as lightweight or heavy-duty models.
Using a power scooter can be much less tiring than walking, however you will need some dexterity to operate it, as well as being comfortable sitting upright for an extended period of time. If you have arthritis, for example, this may not be the best option for you.
4. Manual Wheelchairs
If you have trouble sitting upright or operating the machinery of a scooter, a manual wheelchair might be your best option. Those with strength in the arms will be able to push the wheels easily to get around the house, or otherwise a loved one will easily be able to push the chair from behind.
There are various models of manual wheelchairs available, all suiting different needs. For example, individuals with spinal cord injuries often opt for ultra-lightweight models. These allow for various adjustments, including armrests and a range of different tyres.
5. Power Wheelchairs
Finally, there are power wheelchairs. There are countless variants when it comes to power wheelchairs, all with different features such as front-wheel drive, independent suspension and so on.
A power wheelchair will allow you to move around indoors and outdoors without having to self-propel or be pushed. They are also typically more compact than a mobility scooter, making them easier to manoeuvre.
As you can see, there are plenty of options when it comes to choosing your mobility aid. If you would like specialist advice on choosing a model to suit your lifestyle, call us for free and we will be happy to assist you.
by Jon Pearce | 29th Mar, 2023 | Home
Your home is your haven. It’s somewhere you want to feel safe and secure. That being said, there are a few potential hazards in and around the home. As you’re more prone to accidents and injuries as you age, it’s essential to ensure your home is safe and carry out some checks.
Fortunately, there are ways you can update your home to make it suit a range of medical concerns and mobility issues. In this article, we’ll share the best home safety tips to keep you or a loved one safe at home.
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- Bathroom Health and Safety Tips
- Living Space Health and Safety Tips
- Hygiene Tips and Best Practices for Your Home
- Kitchen Home Safety Checklist
Bathroom Health and Safety
Make your bathroom safer with the below upgrades to minimise the chances of falls and injuries.
1. Attach grab bars
Add these to the wall near the toilet and in the shower/bath to provide support when you’re washing or lifting yourself off the toilet. Grab bars enable you to thoroughly clean yourself without any concerns about stability.
2. Regulate water temperature
Scalding water can be dangerous, as you have reduced reaction times and possible sensory impairments when you age. Ensure the shower and tap temperature doesn’t exceed 44°C if you or a loved one is vulnerable and showers alone.
3. Install a shower chair or walk-in shower
If you or a loved one experiences balance issues, a shower chair makes personal hygiene more attainable without the fear of falling over.
These chairs are specifically designed with non-slip tips on the feet to prevent sliding around when exposed to water. Shower chairs are ideal for those with mobility and strength problems and help you to maintain proper hygiene.
You might also want to consider a walk-in shower. This is because these make bathing far safer than regular showers and also reduce anxieties for people who have limited mobility since they provide much more support with such features as in-built grab rails and slip-resistant surfaces.
4. Changing your bath to a walk-in bath
A traditional bathtub is not always the best option, especially for the elderly or those with limited mobility. Accessibility can often be difficult due to the height and ergonomics of the tub, as well as a lack of a door to enter and exit.
This is where walk-in bath can be hugely beneficial. Walk-in baths have doors that allow for easy entry and exit when taking a bath, which can prevent accidents from taking place. Aside from the ease of accessibility, walk-in baths offer a much more supportive design that include bespoke optional additions depending on the requirements of your loved one.
Also when taking a bath, keep in mind that posture is also very important. Due to a walk-in bath’s more upright design, you sit straighter, keeping your back in a better position for long-term use.
5. Add a raised toilet seat
Traditional toilet seats can make going to the bathroom difficult since they cause you to lower yourself to a seated position. Raised toilet seats are available at various heights—such as three inches higher—making it easier to pull yourself up. Some toilet seats feature arms, making it even more helpful to lower and lift yourself and avoid injury.
6. Upgrade lighting and doors
Falls in the bathroom are quite common as you age, as you’re more prone to slipping on water. Consider switching to a bathroom door that opens outwards so a loved one can easily access the room in the event of a fall.
Additionally, vision can worsen with age, so those trips to the bathroom in the middle of the night can be a safety hazard. However, adding sensor lights along the hallway and in the bathroom ensure the environment is well-lit to eradicate bumping into furniture or falling.
Living Space Health and Safety
7. Take furniture shape and details into consideration
Cabinets and tables can have sharp corners. Switch to furniture that’s rounded to have less of an impact if you bump into them. You can also try upgrading to round knobs to alleviate the effects of arthritis when you’re pulling drawers open.
8. Choose practical furniture
- When looking for sofas and chairs, opt for ones that are suitable for the elderly, such as armchairs, and avoid sofas that sink too low and make it difficult to get up.
- For storage solutions, consider ones that are easily reachable (under-the-bed storage involves bending down and twisting, which might not be suitable for an elderly home). Instead, drawers that easily glide out avoid twisting and pulling.
- All furniture should be sturdy and not too light that it’ll easily fall over, though not too heavy that it could crush you if it fell on you.
- A firm mattress might be a better alternative to a softer one, as it provides more support, helps to align the spine and can make it easier to get out of bed.
9. Avoid rugs and clutter
One of the best home safety tips to make your home a hazard-free space is to eliminate any objects that could encourage falls. Remove rugs in the living space and secure any carpet edges with tape to make it less likely you’ll trip over them.
Speaking of the floor, have a home for objects to avoid leaving clutter on the floor. Putting things away means there’s more floor space and fewer items to trip over.
10. Make the space accessible
Making items easily accessible in the living space is paramount to eliminating the need to bend down and reach up high, which helps to reduce the chances of falls. For example, keep objects at waist height and store everyday objects within easy reach. A grabber might be investible to help you reach things without stretching.
Another benefit of an accessible home is having the independence to complete tasks and reach things without requiring assistance.
11. Wear a personal alarm
If you live alone and are concerned about your safety if you fall, wear a personal alarm in the form of a necklace. These devices alert loved ones or carers at the press of a button and are ideal if you’re in a situation where you can’t get out of yourself and don’t have a phone to hand.
Hygiene and Best Practices for Your Home
12. Change clothes daily
Clothes can harbour bacteria if left unclean, which can lead to skin infections and bad odour. Avoid the spread of germs by changing into fresh underwear daily.
13. Invest in disinfectant sprays
Keeping a home clean can be difficult if you have limited mobility. But you can improve home and personal hygiene by wiping down items and surfaces you use daily with an antibacterial spray. Spritz door handles, taps and kitchen surfaces.
14. Buy helpful hygiene aids
There are many gizmos and products available that can aid personal and home hygiene for the elderly. Stock up on no-rinse wipes and sprays and long-handled brushes that enable you to keep surfaces quickly and without having to bend down.
15. Keep emergency contacts on speed dial
It’s important you have access to contact a loved one instantly if you’re in need. If you or a loved one has memory issues, affix speed dial numbers onto your phone to provide peace of mind.
16. Wear appropriate footwear around the house
Poor-fitting slippers can pose a fall risk if you have mobility issues. Stick to slippers that fit properly and have an adequate grip on the sole, making you less likely to slip on wooden flooring.
17. Set the boiler to a timer
Stay warm throughout the day, especially during winter, by setting the boiler to an appropriate temperature that switches on and off automatically throughout the day. A cold environment can contribute to sore joints and restrict movement.
18. Limit access to chemicals and dangerous substances
If a loved one has dementia, remove anything hazardous that could cause an accident, such as electrical equipment or chemicals. Removing them completely can prevent any life-threatening accidents.
If applicable, store medication out of the way and invest in a pill dispenser to prevent taking too much and act as a daily reminder.
19. Install light sensors
Automatic light sensors ensure a home is well-lit without you or a loved one having to press on light switches, especially for those with dementia.
20. Replace handles on taps
Make it comfortable to turn on and off a tap by updating to ergonomic, comfortable handles. You may even wish to upgrade to automatic water dispensers to prevent having to turn the tap at all.
21. Check alarm systems
It’s important that you have smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed in a home and that they’re checked often. If you or a relative has reduced hearing, position alarms in areas that are used regularly, such as bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens. Some alarm systems also have flashing lights to alert you of danger.
22. Keep a lamp next to the bed
This provides easy access to light if you need to use the toilet in the middle of the night.
23. Install a stairlift
If you live in a home with at least two stories, a stairlift can provide extra assistance if you have trouble walking up and down the stairs.
24. Replace doors with safety aspects
Update doors with a self-locking mechanism should you or a loved one forget to lock the door.
25. Store all electronics appropriately
Keep devices away from water to prevent electric shocks.
26. Prevent common kitchen hazards
Here’s a home safety checklist for the kitchen
- Keep a first-aid kit with plasters, bandages and antiseptic cream
- Sharpen knives; blunt blades require more work and are more dangerous
- Avoid loose-fitting clothing to prevent a fire hazard
- Always wear oven gloves when removing hot food
- Don’t face pan handles outwards on the hob, as you could knock them
Hopefully, these home safety tips will help you create a home where you feel safe. Your well-being is hugely important, and taking steps to make your life easier (and safer) can have a huge impact on your physical and mental health.
