Planning senior housing: the top 10 practical advice

In France, seniors living in an apartment or a residence must anticipate the gradual loss of autonomy, both in town and in the countryside. Also, their accommodation must be secure and provided with suitable fittings. It does not necessarily mean installing medical devices, but simply doing work to make the home safe, with equipment optimized for a serene daily life. This is possible thanks to the work loan , or by making minor changes in the residences and apartments for rent. Seniors and residents can thus maintain their autonomy as long as possible, taking full advantage of their home and its services.
- More info on home support for the elderly on EA-La Téléassistance
Advice and tips for arranging a senior's home
1. Adapt the electrical installations of senior housing
It is a good idea to consider installing more electrical outlets to avoid having to use multiple sockets. These must be at hand height, and no electric wire must be laid on the floor.
2. Secure windows and stairs in service
Install window guardrails and handrails in hallways and staircases to make these places safer.
3. Optimize natural lighting
Install automated roller shutters, whether or not connected to a centralized control system to avoid unnecessary actions (opening, closing shutters, blinds).
4. Improve interior lighting in senior housing
In general, install a suitable lighting system to prevent falls, for example presence detectors in dark areas of the apartment.
5. Secure the bathroom
Convert the bathtub into an Italian shower, with a grab bar as well as a wall seat and a non-slip coating on the floor.
6. Change unsuitable toilets
Install a raised toilet with a grab bar to simplify movements and prevent falls.
7. Install suitable taps
In the bathroom and in the kitchen, install thermostatic valves to avoid the risk of burns.
8. Optimize space by removing unnecessary furniture and knick-knacks
Clear passage areas and install stable furniture, without any sharp angles; furniture with a seat must be high enough.
9. Storage and access to belongings
It is necessary to store things so that they are easy to access at eye level; large objects must be positioned on the ground.
10. Adapt housing floors
A necessary task to prevent accidents and falls. For this, it is necessary to fix the carpets present in the senior housing, or to change the type of floor with a preference for a non-slip coating.