by Growing Needs | Feb 28, 2025 | Caregivers Support, Caregiving
When you start noticing your loved ones having trouble getting about activities of daily living and even moving around, it is perhaps about time to start giving your loved one the environment in which they can move around safely. Be it in nursing home or in an assisted living environment, there is a certain level of mobility assistance and safety features provided to cater to seniors of varying needs.
The presence of mobility safety features can promote mobility, increase independence and boost one’s confidence. Many times, the ability to lead an active and healthy lifestyle is hampered due to a lack of safety mobility features. These mobility features can reduce the risk of incidents such as falls from occurring.
Designing senior living spaces requires understanding seniors’ unique needs and challenges. Nursing homes hold mobility and accessibility in high regard by offering various amenities and services that accommodate patients with diverse needs. This includes wheelchair-accessible ramps, handrails, and dedicated rest areas throughout the premises.
Some common mobility features in senior living facilities that addresses accessibility needs and safety concerns:
Grab bars and handrails in toilets and on slopes – Seniors might panic when they are in an open area with no surrounding objects for support i.e. bars, shelving to grab onto. Nursing homes are well equipped with grab bars and handrails throughout – from the shower area to near the toilets to help them sit and stand. This gives seniors a peace of mind when moving around, promoting mobility.
Moreover, ample room within the wards enables patients to move around quickly. This space availability encourages physical mobility and fosters an active lifestyle during recovery. Patients can freely perform therapeutic exercises or engage in light movements, contributing positively towards their healing process.
Lift Chairs and Hoists – Residents may have mobility issues and lift chairs/hoists come in handy to assist the transition from a sitting to standing position. These devices reduce the risk of falls and prevent strain on both residents and caregivers moving them.
Chairs and wheelchair – Chairs and wheelchairs help support seniors in getting around and promote mobility but have to be used safely. Safety belts on wheelchairs when transporting patients are common mobility safety features.
Fall Detection Alarms – Fall detection alarms are essential in nursing homes, as they alert staff when a resident experiences a serious injury or fall. Prompt emergency response to falls can prevent injuries and ensure residents receive immediate assistance.
Wanderer tracking systems – For residents prone to wandering, wanderer tracking systems offer added security. These systems enable staff to locate residents quickly, ensuring their safety within the nursing home’s premises.
Bed and Chair Alarms – Bed and chair alarms notify caregivers when a resident attempts to leave their bed or chair without assistance. This feature prevents potential falls and helps maintain a safe environment.
The safety and well-being of residents in nursing homes are of utmost importance. Nursing homes have strict guidelines on the living environment, making sure that those who need care get the care service that they need.
If you’re a caregiver deciding between nursing homes in Singapore, do check out this article here on the available options in Singapore including key considerations before choosing a nursing home.
Growing Needs grew out of our own encounters with caring for our aging parents and reflecting on the Growing Needs that we ourselves would face as we advance in years. We hope to build a community that will learn, share and contribute towards caring for the growing needs of our loved ones.
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