Bringing in 24-hour in-home care is a significant step that provides peace of mind, safety, and continuous support for your loved one. Whether you’re welcoming a caregiver into your home for the first time or transitioning to around-the-clock care, preparing your space can make all the difference. At All Heart Home Care, we want every family receiving 24-hour care in San Diego to feel confident and comfortable in the setup of their home. Here are expert tips and recommendations to ensure your home is safe, accessible, and caregiver-ready.
Conduct a Comprehensive Home Safety Assessment
Before care begins, do a full walkthrough of your home with safety in mind. Remove clutter from walkways, check lighting in hallways and staircases, and look for any loose rugs or cords that may cause tripping. The goal is to create a space that promotes mobility and safety for both your loved one and their caregiver.
Bathroom Safety Modifications
Bathrooms are one of the most common places for in-home falls. Making a few key adjustments can drastically reduce risk:
- Install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or tub.
- Use non-slip mats in the tub and on tile floors.
- Consider a shower bench and handheld showerhead to allow for safe, seated bathing.
- Use a raised toilet seat for easier transfers.
- Install a night light for safe navigation during overnight hours.
Improve Lighting and Visibility
Proper lighting is essential for safe movement and visibility:
- Add motion-activated lights in hallways, entryways, and bathrooms.
- Use night lights in bedrooms, hallways, and bathrooms to help with overnight safety.
- Ensure stairways have light switches at both the top and bottom.
Make Living Areas Accessible
Living spaces should be arranged with wide, clear walkways:
- Remove furniture that blocks paths or creates tight spaces.
- Secure or remove area rugs that could be tripping hazards.
- Keep essential items within reach, especially near beds and seating areas.
Stairway and Fall Prevention Measures
- Ensure staircases have handrails on both sides.
- Install non-skid treads on each step.
- Make sure the stairways are well-lit, especially for overnight navigation.
Kitchen & Emergency Preparedness
While caregivers may assist with meal preparation, safety in the kitchen is still important:
- Use appliances with auto shut-off features.
- Keep sharp objects and hazardous materials out of reach.
- Store emergency numbers by the phone and make sure there’s a working fire extinguisher.
- Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functional and placed appropriately.
Electrical and Oxygen Safety
- Avoid placing electrical cords under rugs or across walking areas.
- Secure or reroute cords with cord covers.
- If using oxygen tanks, store them at least 4 feet away from heating sources and always upright.
Communication and Emergency Access
- Keep a first aid kit stocked and easily accessible.
- Post emergency contact numbers in visible areas, like the fridge and by the phone.
- Ensure a phone or emergency call button is near your loved one’s bedside.
- Provide the caregiver with gate codes, key access, and parking instructions as needed.
Assistive Equipment and Medical Supplies
- Have mobility aids (walker, wheelchair, cane) ready and in good condition.
- Make sure medical supplies are stored in a designated, organized area.
- Keep a care journal or binder with medication lists, emergency protocols, and important health documents.
Collaborate with Your Home Care Agency
All Heart Home Care offers a free in-home assessment to help identify potential safety hazards and recommend modifications tailored to your space and your loved one’s needs. Our experienced team helps families across San Diego County feel fully prepared for 24-hour in-home care by offering expert guidance from day one.
Peace of Mind Starts with a Safe Home
The right environment can make 24-hour home care not only effective but empowering. A safe, well-prepared home allows caregivers to provide attentive support while helping your loved one maintain their independence and dignity. Whether you’re in La Jolla, Coronado, Rancho Bernardo, or anywhere in between, All Heart Home Care is here to support you every step of the way with compassionate, professional 24-hour care in San Diego.
