Getting older can be tough. There will be so many things that the person once did with ease, but now the simplest of acts might be a struggle. If this is what your parent has experienced, then you have watched them wither away to an extent, and maybe you want to do something to help?
Some adult children, particularly those who have the effort, money, and time, will choose to adapt their own homes to have their parent move in. In fact, there have been occasions when adult children have built extensions or separate homes for their parents to live nearby. This might seem like a big job, but it’s one that roughly one third of UK homes have undertaken.
These backyards homes can be perfect for offering an elderly parent space and independence without risking their health and safety with miles between you both. To learn more about how to finalize the readiness of one of these houses, read on.
Address Accessibility and Safety
One of the biggest issues that elderly individuals have in their homes is the lack of accessibility. Very few houses are built with the elderly in mind, meaning they are not fitted with the necessary safety equipment, such as grab bars or widened doorways. Instead, narrow hallways and steep stairs can cause the falls and trips, especially when paired with loose carpet and other hazards.
To ensure the granny annex you have built is suitable, it must have these safety precautions and more. Having sturdy handrails whenever there are areas that can be difficult to navigate or steps should be a priority for all parties involved. Also, as good lighting is essential, it could be worthwhile investing in motion-sensor lights that can illuminate walkways and ensure good visibility. Other areas to consider include the bathroom, kitchen, and so on.
Sometimes, it is encouraged to bring in a second set of eyes to ensure the home is easy to access and safe for your parent. If your parent receives home care from a professional, they might be able to offer you advice. Home care services, like Visiting Angels La Mesa – Senior Home Care Services, are professionals in the field, and your parent’s carer will understand exactly what your parent needs from a home setup.
Offer Comfort and Convenience
With safety and accessibility sorted, it is time to move on to providing comfort and convenience. This backyard property will be your parent’s home and safe place, meaning it must be somewhere they enjoy spending time. This might take some time, but the payoff will be worthwhile.
Keeping the space minimalist will lower the risk of any injuries from happening, but this does not mean the building should be devoid of all personal touches. The practical steps include modifying the kitchen to ensure everything is at the right level for access, the space is not cluttered, and smart home devices are added for additional convenience.
Even if your parent spends a lot of time in the main building – your family’s home – this does not change that you should make their own dwelling inviting. If you struggle with the interior, you could always ask for advice from other family members or get your parent involved, if they feel up to the challenge.
Prioritize Your Parent’s Specific Needs
When all of the basic finishing touches have been made, you should take a moment to consider if everything meets your parent’s specific requirements. As previously mentioned, some tasks will be difficult to do due to their age and body’s condition; for example, they might struggle to get up from the sofa after a long while of sitting. Thankfully, there are other additions you can make to reduce these issues.
For elderly parents that cannot get off of their seat after a while, it is encouraged to think about purchasing a riser-recliner chair. This would help the individual get up and down from their sitting position. You might also want to add easy communication methods, such as an emergency system or a phone with large, clearly numbered buttons; a list of contact details should be kept nearby to ensure they can get in touch with you or their carer, if applicable, when necessary.
To conclude, moving your parent from their own home to a specially built backyard property behind your house can be a big change. It can also be a very rewarding opportunity for the entire family. If you want to do this, then it is essential you carry out the final touches mentioned in this post.
With a Master’s in Landscape Architecture from the University of Virginia, Sophia Stephenson has dedicated the last 20 years to creating and maintaining vibrant outdoor spaces. Her professional journey started in landscape design, where she gained a reputation for innovative and sustainable approaches. Sophia became a part of our editorial team as a freelancer in 2019, offering a fresh perspective on outdoor living. Since 2020, she has been the chief for our outdoor design content, blending aesthetic appeal with environmental stewardship. In her leisure time, Sophia is a keen photographer, capturing the beauty of natural landscapes, a hobby that complements her professional expertise.
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