Small Adjustments Create Big Change

Posted on March 4th, by Mark Winter in Sonoma Elder Care, Vision Issues. No Comments

Our vision allows us to move through life with an ease we sometimes take for granted. It allows us to see the wonders of the world, the smiles on our loved ones’ faces, and to move through our day to day activities without a second thought. Vision keeps us independent and self-sufficient, and the idea of losing that ability can be unnerving and saddening.

Because of this, it is important to approach someone experiencing vision loss with care and consideration. Going through the home and making small adjustments can make a senior’s life much easier and allow for continued independence. A general rule of thumb when making home modifications for seniors with impaired vision is to pay special attention to the basic concepts of lighting, color and contrast. Try making a few of these small adjustments:

Lighting

Try to maintain continuous lighting levels throughout the home. If possible, install extra lighting in entryways, hallways, and at the top and bottom of each staircase to eliminate shadows or excessively bright areas.
Install fluorescent ceiling fixtures for general room lighting, supplemented with candescent, LED, or halogen lighting in desk lamps, table lamps, and floor fixtures.
Use a bedside lamp with a “clap-on” feature, or one that can activate by simply touching the base.
Use lampshades that are light-colored and translucent; generally, this type of shade allows the maximum transmission of light without glare.
Install flexible-arm lamps wherever needed for reading or identifying clothing and medication.

Kitchen

Use white plates on a dark tablecloth, or place dark dishes on a white or light-colored cloth. If possible, avoid using clear glass cups and dishes.
Use brightly colored raised marking dots on the stove, oven, and microwave controls to allow for easier adjustments.
Use a reversible black and white cutting board to provide contrast. For example, onions, potatoes, and yellow squash will show up more clearly on the black side, while the white side will provide greater contrast with tomatoes and green vegetables.

Bathroom

When towels, washcloths, and bath mats need replacing, purchase solid colors that contrast with the tub, floor, and wall tile.
Transfer soap, shampoo, and other bath products to brightly colored plastic bottles or wall mounted containers that contrast with the tub and wall tile.
Replace a white toilet seat with a brightly colored one that contrasts with the walls and fixtures.

If deciding what home adjustments to make feels overwhelming, we can help! Hired Hands Home Care has the best caregivers in California ready to provide the right amount of help for your loved ones. Our staff can help assess your home and provide insight to what small changes can make the home safer. Contact us today at (866) 940-4343 for your free home safety evaluation.