How to Design an Elderly-Friendly Home in Singapore

 An ageing population comes with its own unique set of challenges in the economy, society and at home. 

By the end of the decade, senior citizens (aged above 65) will make up a quarter of Malaysia's national population. If you have decided to care for your elderly parents or in-laws in the comfort of your own home, it is tantamount to ensure your home design is senior-friendly to avoid accidents.

No idea where to start? Here are some tips!

1. Keep Wires, Breakables, and Other Dangerous Goods Out of Reach

When designing an elderly-friendly home, safety is of utmost importance, especially if they have difficulty getting around due to physical challenges. 

However, it is not enough just to keep hazardous items like lighters out of the way. Something as simple as a throw rug could be a fall hazard.

Keep hazardous goods like breakables, wires, as well as 'harmless' objects out of the way as much as possible. Stow them in hide-away storage and only take them out when needed. 

2. Invest in Elderly-Friendly Furniture 

At an old age, sometimes finding comfort in regular household furniture can be pretty challenging. That's why including senior-friendly facilities are a great way to make movement and daily life more manageable. 

One piece of furniture you could use is a motorised recliner. Recliners are perfect for anyone who wants to catch some snooze in the afternoon. With plush support and an adjustable footrest, it can keep your senior family member comfortable throughout the day. Typically, recliners have a higher sitting height, so it’s easy to get on and out of it. Users can also adjust the reclining angles with the touch of a button.

If your family member has problems standing, you could also invest in sit-stand support products to make standing and sitting more comfortably. Keep these right next to the recliner. 

3. Incorporate Adjustable Beds

Getting in and out of bed can be challenging for seniors and middle-aged adults who have knees problems. So, using an adjustable bed with a multi-hinged lying surface might be helpful. It allows you to customize your bed's alignment so that you can get a good night's rest. 

Adjustable beds have been known to relieve chronic pain and boost blood circulation as well. They are beneficial for senior folks who have mobility issues, back problems, and injuries. 

These beds are especially beneficial for individuals who are bed-bound. Even though the primary purpose of the adjustable beds is to make getting in and out of bed easy for seniors, ensure the designs of the bedframe pair well with the overall concept of the space. There are such beds with nice bedframes while the adjustable functions are so subtly designed you won’t even notice.

When choosing a mattress, opt for one which can bend easily. Also, make sure the mattress has latex and pocket spring for a more comfortable experience. 

4. Include Anti-Slip Measures

From poor lighting, areas of disrepair, loose carpets, clutter and lack of safety equipment, there are many ways one can fall. 

Youngsters might be able to bounce back quickly after tripping on household objects, but the results might be dire for the elderly who are weaker and more prone to injury.

Have anti-slip measures like anti-slip home slippers and flooring carpet rolls wherever possible. Use carpets with anti-slip functions as well.