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When we fix up our homes, we often think about the aesthetics and the function, of course. We often think solely about ourselves, too. It’s understandable because we’re going to be the ones who inhabit the home for the majority of the time. We need to make sure that we’re happy with the place we’re staying in. We’ll also think about people who walk past or friends we’ll be welcoming into the place. Wanting to impress others with the things we possess is a totally natural desire.
Something we don’t really take into account, however, is what happens when our older friends and family members are invited over. Perhaps our parents or grandparents need to stay over a few times and we need to accommodate their stay. Sometimes, households are not in any way suited to their situation and the needs that they have. We’ll take their health very seriously and worry about what happens after their health screenings, but we don’t often consider our own actions and how we can contribute. Fortunately, however, making sure you can accommodate them or switch things up is actually pretty simple. Not much overthinking is required. Here are some ideas if you’re wondering:
Provide Enough Space
This is relating to one’s mentality and physicality. They’ll need space to maneuver if they’re not exactly at their most mobile anymore. They’ll also need to be able to have space to breathe – especially when they first enter your home. Nobody likes to be bombarded with walls and decorations as soon as they enter a new area. Think of ways you could create space and allow them to navigate through safely.
Make Sure The Lighting Is Good
They may not have lost their vision and other senses greatly just yet, but they’ll certainly not want to enter a place that has awful lighting. They’re going to want to see clearly and not be put off by the gloomy, dreary atmosphere. Make sure you have natural light gleaming in from wherever you can. Artificial lights will also help later on in the day, of course, so you can utilize your creativity somewhat in this department.
Watch The Noise
There is a time and a place for loud noises. We like to go to concerts, parties, and sports venues from time to time, but your home should be for relaxing – especially when you have elderly relatives over. You’ll want to ensure that they enjoy their stay, so don’t be loud and intimidating while they’re in your domain. Think about keeping the significant housework down to a minimum if you have lots of jobs to do. Asking neighbors to keep noises down if they’re not being too helpful wouldn’t be too much to ask – as awkward as it can be sometimes.
Think Of The Access
They’re not going to be as mobile as perhaps you are – if you are, indeed, able to get around quickly! You might have to think about installing a few ramps if you have an elevated home that is only accessible by steps. Think also about the stairs in your home if you have more than one floor. This may be some effort to handle as you’ll need to have new things installed onto your home, but it would be worth it in the end.
