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As we age, our homes may no longer suit our needs, making everyday tasks challenging and reducing our independence. However, with the right home adaptations for the elderly, you can create a safer, more comfortable living environment that supports mobility and well-being. Whether it’s installing grab rails, upgrading to a profiling bed, or investing in specialised furniture like riser recliner chairs, these changes can make a significant difference.
At Opera Beds, we’ve helped thousands of elderly individuals and their families create homes that are both comfortable and practical. In this guide, we’ll explore 6 key home adaptations to consider, along with the support available to make these changes easier.
6 Essential Home Adaptations for the Elderly
1. Grab Rails for Safety and Support
Grab rails are one of the simplest yet most effective home adaptations for elderly individuals. They provide stability and confidence, reducing the risk of falls in high-risk areas like bathrooms, staircases, and hallways. Key locations for grab rails include:
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Next to the toilet, bathtub, or shower
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Along both sides of the staircase
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Near entrances and exits
For added safety in the bedroom, consider our range of bed grab rails.
2. Walk-in Showers for Easier Bathing
Traditional bathtubs can be difficult to access for those with limited mobility. A walk-in shower (or level-access shower) eliminates the need to step over a high threshold, making bathing safer and more comfortable. Many walk-in showers also feature slip-resistant flooring to further reduce the risk of accidents.
3. Riser Recliner Chairs for Comfort and Mobility
A riser recliner chair is an excellent addition to any home, offering both comfort and practical support. These chairs feature a powered lifting mechanism that gently raises the user to a standing position, making it easier to get up and sit down independently. They also provide ergonomic support, helping to relieve pressure on the back and legs which makes them ideal for those with arthritis or sciatica.
Explore our range of riser recliner chairs to find the perfect fit or get in touch to try them in your nearest showroom.
4. Improved Lighting for Better Visibility
Poor lighting can increase the risk of trips and falls, especially for elderly individuals with reduced eyesight. Simple changes like these can make a big difference:
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Replace old lightbulbs with brighter LED bulbs
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Paint dark rooms and furniture in lighter colours
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Install motion-activated lights in hallways
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Add additional lighting in high-risk areas like the kitchen
For bedtime reading, consider an over-the-bed reading lamp for added convenience.
5. Adjustable Beds for Enhanced Comfort
An adjustable bed can transform the bedroom into a safer and more comfortable space. With features like back and leg rest adjustments, these beds make it easier to find a supportive sleeping position, improve circulation, and reduce pain caused by conditions like arthritis or oedema. They also make getting in and out of bed easier, promoting independence.
For those who need extra assistance but don’t require a profiling bed, our elevation kit is the perfect solution. Compatible with all Opera adjustable beds, the elevation kit adds an extra 30cm to the bed’s height, making it easier for elderly individuals with limited mobility or poor balance to get in and out of bed safely. This simple yet effective addition encourages independence and enhances accessibility, ensuring your loved one can move with confidence.
Explore our range of adjustable beds to find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you’re looking for advanced features like zero-gravity positioning or practical solutions like the elevation kit, our beds are designed to support comfort, mobility, and independence.
6. Profiling Beds for Advanced Support
For those with more complex mobility needs, a profiling bed offers advanced features that go beyond standard adjustable beds. These beds are designed to provide exceptional support, comfort, and independence, making them ideal for elderly individuals with limited mobility, poor balance, or specific care needs.
At Opera Beds, our range of profiling beds combines advanced nursing functionality with attractive design to support care needs a home. Here’s how our profiling beds can support comfort and independence:
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Height Adjustment: Our profiling beds can be raised or lowered to the perfect height, making it easier to get in and out of bed safely. This feature is particularly beneficial for those with mobility challenges or those who use a wheelchair.
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Profiling Mattress Platform: The bed’s platform can be adjusted to support different sleeping and resting positions. Whether you want to sit upright to read, elevate your legs to improve circulation, or find a comfortable position to relieve pressure, our beds offer unparalleled flexibility.
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Caregiver-Friendly Design: Our profiling beds are designed with both the user and caregiver in mind. The height adjustment feature reduces strain on caregivers when assisting with daily routines, while the easy-to-use controls ensure a seamless experience for the user.
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Durable and Stylish: Built to last, our profiling beds are crafted from high-quality materials and come in a range of stylish designs to suit any bedroom décor.
What Support Is Available for Home Adaptations?
Making home adaptations can feel overwhelming, but there are several resources available to help:
Local Council Support
Your local council can provide a free home assessment to identify the adaptations you need. An occupational therapist will visit your home and recommend changes, such as installing grab rails or a walk-in shower. Councils typically cover adaptations costing less than £1,000.
Disabled Facilities Grants
For more extensive adaptations, you may be eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant. These grants are means-tested and can help cover the cost of larger projects, such as installing a stairlift or widening doorways. Applying for a grant won’t affect any benefits you receive.
Home Improvement Agencies (HIAs)
HIAs are not-for-profit organisations that offer practical support with home adaptations. They can help with tasks like getting estimates, arranging surveys, and accessing financial assistance. Search online to find an HIA in your area.
Why Choose Opera Beds?
We’re passionate about helping elderly individuals live comfortably and independently in their own homes. Our range of adjustable beds, riser recliner chairs, and mobility aids are designed with quality and innovation in mind. Rated excellent on Trustpilot, we’re proud to be a trusted name in the UK for home adaptations.
Our friendly team is also on hand to help with adaptations to your home. From your initial enquiry to delivery and beyond, we offer a professional and passionate service with your individual needs at the forefront of everything we do. Our network of highly skilled engineers will install your bed or chair in the room of your choice, making sure you’re confident in using your new furniture before we go. If you need us to, our team can also remove your old furniture before installing your new one.
Take the First Step Towards a Safer Home
If you’re considering home adaptations for yourself or a loved one, our expert team is here to help. Book a free consultation today to discuss your needs and explore our range of products. Together, we can create a home that supports independence, comfort, and well-being.
