Taking care of aging parents, a loved one, or a patient from surgery and in need of some special care for mobility can all be extremely rewarding yet sometimes totally draining. One of the biggest concerns that families who do home care come across is an assurance of convenience and safety for their own. Thankfully, if you are residing in Toronto and looking hospital bed for sale , you have several options for practical intervention and local resources that can modify your home to render it safe, accessible, and comfortable to the elderly.
1. Assess the Home Environment
Begin with a full home assessment. Look inside at entryways, bathrooms, bedrooms, and stairs. Are there tripping hazards: loose rugs, clutter? Lighting, perhaps, in the hallway? Once areas posing possible risk are identified, one can work toward creating safer spaces.
It may also be worth considering asking an occupational therapist for advice. There are many healthcare practitioners in Toronto who will assess your home and provide personalized recommendations based upon the physical condition and day-to-day needs of your loved one.
2. Purchase Medical Equipment
A huge part of making protection and comfort a term at home can easily be provided by medical equipment. Some of this goes:
- Hospital beds (these bed types are adjustable for support as well as ease of caregiving)
- Lift chairs (for sitting and standing)
- Walkers and canes
- Grab bars and bed rails
- Shower chairs or raised toilet seats
There are medical supply stores that are trusted in Toronto, which hire out equipment, deliver, and set up as well: great in the beginning, for short-term recovery, and then for ongoing care.
3. Improving Bathroom Safety
This is one of the most common areas in which to fall. Take the next steps by installing grab bars by the toilets and in the showers; non-slip mats are also a good idea. Another alternative would be considering a walk-in bathtub or a roll-in shower for wheelchair access.
4. Create a Resting Area
Comfort becomes even more critical should his/her loved one spend much time in bed or seated. Pressure relief mattresses; soft but supportive cushions; and adjustable beds will help significantly in reducing pressure sores and will contribute to a better quality rest. Their proper positioning will also make a significant impact on his/her breathing, digestion, and his/her overall well-being.
5. Consider Professional Home Health Care Support
While having the proper equipment and making modifications to the home is helpful in providing care, it can still be a significant burden to carry. Home care in Toronto can also include, but is not limited to, nursing visits, p.r.n. personal care, physiotherapies, or companionship. Many of these agencies offer part-time, respite care, to help alleviate family member caregiving responsibilities.
6. Connect with Community Resources
There are a number of community-based programs for seniors, and/or persons with a disability in Toronto. A few examples include (but are not limited to) the Toronto Seniors Helpline, March of Dimes Canada, and local health units that all provide or assist with transportation, meal delivery, mobility aids, etc.
Final Thoughts
Supporting a loved one to make their home safer and secure should not feel too overwhelming. With the opportunity to take over the tasks such as a home assessment, medical equipment, and/or utilizing a Toronto-based services, and the additional services that can be available for your loved one, it is possible to create an environment in their home that can assist them, while enabling independence, dignity, and peace of mind for everyone involved.
