Whether it's for a day or an extended stay, creating a safe and comfortable environment for a care recipient’s visit is key. Preparing your home can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety, but is necessary to ensure a positive experience for all.
Let’s explore practical steps to make your home welcoming and secure, helping you feel more organized and confident as you anticipate a visit.
Safety First: A Room-by-Room Checkup
Start by conducting a thorough safety assessment of your home. Walk through each room, keeping an eye out for potential hazards:
- Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
- Clear clutter from walkways and stairs.
- Ensure good lighting in all areas, especially at night.
Recognize that what seems harmless to you might pose a risk for someone with mobility challenges.
Improving Accessibility: Clearing the Path
Focus on making your home easily navigable:
- Rearrange furniture to create clear pathways for walkers or wheelchairs.
- Consider temporary ramps for entryways with steps.
- Ensure frequently used items are within easy reach.
Offer a Restful Retreat
Set up a comfortable sleeping area which promotes rest and safety:
- Choose a lower bed that allows for easier accessibility and transfers.
- Place a small table nearby for essentials such as water and medications.
- Ensure there's a well-lit, unobstructed path to the bathroom.
Bathroom Basics: Safety and Convenience
Pay special attention to bathroom conditions:
- Install grab bars, a shower chair, or a raised toilet seat if needed.
- Use non-slip mats in the tub and on the bathroom floor.
- Organize toiletries for ultimate convenience.
Kitchen Considerations
Make the kitchen a safe, welcoming space:
- Arrange commonly accessed items at waist level or in lower cabinets.
- Ensure the dining area is comfortable and convenient.
- Keep familiar, easily prepared foods on hand.
Practical Matters: Medications and Emergencies
Don't forget important details:
- Establish a safe, organized area for medications.
- Post important phone numbers in an obvious location.
- Discuss emergency plans with everyone in the household.
Creating a Sense of Home
Personal touches make an impact:
- Display family photos and recognizable mementos.
- Create a cozy seating area for socializing.
- Provide a variety of favorite books, music, or games.
Don’t Forget to Take Care of You
Amidst all the preparations, remember to take care of yourself:
- Set realistic expectations for the visit.
- Arrange for help or respite if needed.
- Create a private space for taking breaks.
Rather than attempting to create the perfect environment, focus instead on offering one that is safe, comfortable, and filled with care and consideration. Be prepared to adapt as needed during a visit.
By following these suggestions you're not only preparing your home, you're also creating a welcoming space that conveys, "I'm glad you're here.” And that's the most important preparation of all.
Learn how the Caregiven app can support you with additional resources designed to help caregivers navigate preparedness and many other caregiving challenges