Independent seniors need safe and easy access to home
appliances to help prepare and cook meals, wash laundry and dishes, and chill
and freeze food. As individuals age, they have special safety considerations
that make them less alert or capable. Appliances must meet certain mobility,
vision, hearing, and other health requirements.
Whether you plan to live independently as you age or have a
loved one approaching retirement, it may be helpful to regard home appliances
with an eye toward ageing. Learn more about these practical home appliance tips
for independent seniors.
Avoid High-Tech Appliances
Today's seniors were born around the 1940s and 1950s, which
can make the switch to high-tech appliances difficult. In fact, seniors may be
reluctant to delve into high-tech because they are disinclined to change
familiar patterns, are unable to see or hear well, and their brains struggle to
remember new processes.
When it's time to pick appliances for the elderly, keep in
mind that the digital features you love about your own refrigerator might not
work for them. Your grandparents probably never had a touchscreen grocery list
on their refrigerator. They are more likely to be accustomed to appliances with
minimal controls, simple features, and fewer options.
Install Senior-Friendly Appliances
Many homes have floor plans with seniors in mind. Main level
living space, wide doorways and halls to accommodate wheelchairs, and grab bars
in bathroom make life accessible and safe. Appliances should also reflect the
needs of their users and be more senior friendly. This means an appliance
should address any medical or health conditions that come with age.
Refrigerators
This food saver should be larger rather than smaller to
accommodate bulk purchases, which makes the need for shopping less frequent.
Side-by-side models and models with a bottom freezer drawer are more easily
accessible. Look for well-lit, bright interiors so the user can easily see the
contents. Handles need to be long enough to easily grasp from a standing or
seated position.
Microwaves
These convenient appliances are a must for seniors because
they prepare food very quickly. Microwaves often eliminate the need to cook on
an open flame stovetop with its associated fire dangers. Choose models with a
loud notification beep for those that struggle with hearing. The oven should
offer a cook feature that senses and shuts off when food is cooked.
Stoves
You can opt for a combination stove and oven unit or
individual wall oven and built-in stovetop. Pick an induction stovetop that
does not cook with a flame or radiant heat, which more easily cause burns and
fires. Make sure control knobs are easily accessible at the front rather than
located at the back of the stovetop.
Dishwashers
Select a dishwasher with large, easy-to-turn control knobs
and a door that opens easily. You can also opt for a countertop dishwasher so
that users do not have to bend down to load and unload dishes.
Washers and Dryers
Front-loading washers and dryers are the most convenient to
load and unload because they require little movement. Place them on a pedestal
if you want them a bit higher off the ground.
Regularly Check Appliances
While many seniors are capable of cooking their own food and
washing their dishes, they may not know how to deal with an appliance that
malfunctions or breaks. Some elderly people may feel they are an inconvenience
or a nuisance and do not ask for help. As a result, they may suffer while an
appliance does not function.
You can help a loved one remain independent when you have
appliances regularly checked. Periodic inspections ensure a piece of equipment
like a stove or microwave does its job. Sometimes an inspection can even reveal
safety hazards, such as bad wiring or insufficient wattage in older buildings.
Contact Robert Cottingham Property Management Cofor more information on senior apartments.
