As a caregiver to a senior loved one, you want to ensure that their home is safe and comfortable, even if there is someone always there to care for them. One of the most important areas to focus on for elderly care is the kitchen, which is where many families spend a lot of time. Here are a few design tips for a senior-friendly kitchen that will make daily tasks easier and safer.

4 Design Tips for a Senior-Friendly Kitchen

1. Install Adequate Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for seniors with vision problems. Make sure the kitchen is well-lit with bright, task-specific lighting. Install under-cabinet lighting to illuminate countertops and workspaces. Consider motion-activated lights that turn on when someone enters the room. This will help prevent falls and make it easier to see what you're doing.

2. Choose Easy-to-Use Appliances

Appliances with large, easy-to-read displays and buttons are ideal for seniors. Consider investing in a side-by-side refrigerator with the freezer on the bottom for easier access. A wall oven with a side-swing door is also a good choice. Avoid appliances with complicated controls or small buttons that can be difficult to operate.

3. Optimize Storage

Seniors may have trouble reaching high cabinets or bending down to access lower ones. Consider installing pull-out shelves or drawers for elderly care that make it easier to access items. Use lazy susans or other rotating shelves to make the most of corner cabinets. Avoid storing heavy items on high shelves to prevent injury.

4. Add Safety Features

Safety features are critical in a senior-friendly kitchen. Install slip-resistant flooring to prevent falls. Add grab bars near the stove, sink, and other work areas. Use contrasting colors for countertops and cabinets to help seniors distinguish between surfaces. Finally, make sure there is adequate space for a wheelchair or walker to navigate the kitchen.

If you or a loved one need help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There’s also the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits, if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific elderly care needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.