Blog

As we grow older, our priorities change. Where the focus may have once been on raising children or meeting career milestones, the view – and goals – shift as time goes by. One area that may seem to take on more importance is finding a sense of safety. If you’re not feeling as safe as you would like, you might want to consider if your home environment could be contributing to the cause.

In search of senior living safety

If you’re living at home, you may have noticed the following challenges:

1. Not all homes were designed to support aging well.

As an older adult, steps to get into or out of the house and climbing even more once inside to reach your bedroom or laundry room can pose a bigger risk to your safety. If you have mobility issues or don’t feel as steady on your feet, your risk of falling increases.

2. Your kitchen and bathroom may require expensive renovations.

Your cabinets may mean using a stepladder which poses its own risk. Reaching over hot burners on a stovetop or having to bend down can also increase risk of injury. Bathrooms without grab bars or showers that require stepping up and over into a tub may also decrease your ability to stay safe.

3. Is caregiving needed and available?

Safety issues can also extend to older spouses who may be caring for their partners and be at risk of injury trying to provide support during a fall. Caregivers can also become exhausted or ignore their own health needs until they become ill.

4. Is loneliness or social isolation becoming a problem?

Greatly influencing your risk of loneliness or becoming isolated can depend on where you live, if friends or family are nearby for support or if there are alternative transportation options if you no longer drive. Each can have serious impacts on your health.

5. Is your home and neighborhood safe and secure overall?

If your home is in need of repairs, there may be safety issues. While you can install a security system, many older adults may still not feel a sense of security if they live alone and worry about what they would do if something happened.

How senior living can provide a sense of safety and security

One of the great benefits of community life is knowing that someone is there in case of illness, accident or injury. Communities are designed with aging and safety in mind. Take a look at a few of their benefits and how they can help you discover the reassurance to enjoy your best life.

• Accessible residences and community spaces

There will be no need for expensive renovations if you move into a senior living community. Your home is designed for both safety and accessibility. You’ll also discover these same features throughout the community and common areas.

• A sense of safety in numbers

Although you’ll enjoy your privacy and personal residence, you won’t need to worry about being isolated from others. There are many opportunities to get to know your neighbors and to make friends. It’s also nice to know that there are others nearby if you ever need help.

• Available assistance 

If you need a helping hand with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming or preparing meals, you’ll find that available as well. You won’t need to risk your safety or rely on others. Assistance can keep you safe and help you maintain your independence longer.

• Transportation available

For some older adults, driving can become more difficult and dangerous due to vision problems and slower reflexes. But if you are no longer driving or are beginning to drive less, you may find yourself feeling left out of the activities you once enjoyed. Communities provide scheduled transportation so you can still join in but leave the driving to others.

• Safety and security systems

You may feel safer living in a community that is secured either through personnel or alarm systems. Residences will include safety systems, such as fire and carbon monoxide detectors. Residents may also have a personal alert or call system.

Discover life at a Northbridge community

If you’re considering senior living for yourself or a family member, we hope you’ll visit one of our communities. You’ll find a maintenance-free, activity-filled and engaging lifestyle to help support your wellness goals.

You’ll also discover many benefits in a Northbridge Senior Living community, including our Signature Program S.T.A.R. Club (Sharp Thinking, Active Residents) – which offers our residents several activities to participate in with others, including:

• Daily exercise group
• Walking club
• Tai Chi & Yoga
• Nutritional classes
• Library and book club
• Museum outings
• Artists in residence program
• Multi-generational music
• Genealogy Generations 

We’re here to answer any of your questions and would like to share with you our free guide: Choosing the Right Senior Living Community: A Step-by-Step Guide for Making an Informed Decision. Or, contact us to schedule a personalized tour.