Age-related eye diseases play a large part in the number of older adults who go blind or partially blind. The top diseases that lead to blindness or low vision are cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, or macular degeneration.
If your dad’s vision is worsening or he’s lost his vision, it’s important that you do two things. First, he cannot drive. You need to take away his keys. Sell his car if it’s no longer going to get used. Otherwise, hand his caregivers the keys and let them use his car when driving him to appointments or area businesses.
Second, make improvements in his home that keep him safer. There are several areas where you need to change layouts or furnishings. These are the aspects you’ll need to focus on.
How Accessible is the Entry?
While he’s acclimating to little or no vision, your dad will need something to hold on while he moves around. If he’s in the home he’s known for years, he’s likely familiar with the layout and that may help him.
You do need to look at how he gets in and out of the home. Do all of the stairs have a railing? They should. If a railing looks loose, tighten it. If this type of repair is beyond your skill, hire a professional or see if there is a local organization that can help.
Look around for obstacles that he may trip on. If he’s always put boots on the edge of the stairs, that can’t happen anymore. Put a shoe organizer against a wall that’s out of the way.
Remove Any Rugs
Scatter rugs may add eye appeal to a floor, but they’re also hazardous. Remove any throw rugs. If you really don’t want them removed, move them to a low-traffic area or make sure they have non-slip backing.
Rearrange Furniture
Ottomans, coffee tables, and other furniture that sits low can become a hazard when vision goes. If you have to have them for storage, move them to areas outside of heavy traffic areas. Leave heavy furniture like sofas and your dad’s favorite chair in the exact same spot. Do not move the furniture he uses the most.
While you’re rearranging items, make sure cords are secured to the wall and not laying out in an area your dad’s foot may catch on it. Position lamps in areas where he’s not likely to bump them when walking by.
Caregivers can help your dad when you have other obligations. Call a senior care agency to talk about the cost of hiring caregivers to support your dad’s changing needs.
If you or an aging loved one needs a Caregiver in Sacramento, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
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