Living with Parkinson’s disease presents unique challenges, as it can affect mobility, coordination and the ability to perform everyday tasks. These changes can make certain areas of the home feel less safe or harder to navigate. However, with thoughtful adjustments, you can transform your living space into a safer, more comfortable and accessible environment that supports your independence and well-being.
Adapting your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making strategic modifications—whether it’s adding grab bars, rearranging furniture or incorporating assistive technology—you can reduce risks and create a space that works with you, not against you.
In this article, we’ll explore practical tips and solutions to help you adapt your home to better suit your needs if you’re living with Parkinson’s.
Choosing equipment and modifications
1. General safety adjustments
Creating a safe and secure home environment is the first step in adapting to life with Parkinson’s.
Begin by addressing common hazards:
- Install grab bars in key areas like hallways, stairways and frequently used spaces for added stability.
- Clear pathways by removing clutter, loose rugs or furniture that may obstruct movement.
- Use non-slip mats or secure flooring materials to reduce the risk of falls.
- Improve lighting by adding motion-activated or easily accessible light switches to avoid navigating in the dark.
2. Adapting the living room
The living room should be a space for relaxation, but it can also pose challenges for those with Parkinson’s.
Consider these adjustments:
- Choose furniture with firm cushions and armrests to make sitting and standing easier.
- Arrange furniture to create wide, unobstructed pathways, reducing the chance of tripping.
- Use weighted or anti-tip furniture to prevent accidents caused by unintentional movements.
- To avoid excessive bending or stretching, keep frequently used items, such as remote controls or books within easy reach.
3. Modifications in the kitchen
The kitchen is often the heart of the home but can be a challenging space to navigate with Parkinson’s.
To make it safer and more accessible:
- Use adaptive utensils and tools, such as those with non-slip handles or weighted designs for easier gripping.
- Install pull-out shelves or a lazy Susan in cabinets to minimise reaching and bending.
- Store heavy items at waist level to reduce strain.
- Opt for appliances with simple controls, such as one-touch buttons or large, easy-to-read displays.
4. Bathroom adjustments
Bathrooms can be particularly hazardous due to slippery surfaces.
Enhance safety and accessibility with these aids for Parkinson’s:
- Install grab bars near the toilet, sink and shower for additional support.
- Use a raised toilet seat or a toilet safety frame to make sitting and standing easier.
- Switch to a walk-in shower or use a shower chair for stability during bathing.
- Place non-slip mats both inside and outside the shower to reduce the risk of slipping.
5. Bedroom enhancements
The bedroom should be a restful space that promotes ease of movement and night time safety.
To achieve this:
- Ensure the bed is at an appropriate height to make getting in and out easier.
- Install bed rails for added stability during transitions.
- Use nightlights or motion-sensor lighting to guide night time trips to the bathroom or other areas.
- Rearrange furniture to ensure a clear, obstacle-free layout, improving overall mobility.
6. Stairway and hallway modifications
Navigating stairs and hallways can be particularly daunting for individuals with Parkinson’s.
Adapt these spaces with:
- Handrails on both sides of the stairs to provide added support.
- Stair lifts or ramps for easier access between floors if needed.
- High-contrast tape on stair edges to improve visibility.
- Well-lit hallways -consider using motion-sensor lights to reduce the risk of tripping in low light.
7. Leveraging smart technology
Smart technology can offer additional convenience and safety for those living with Parkinson’s.
Consider:
- Voice-activated devices to control lights, appliances or even lock doors without the need for physical effort.
- Smart doorbells or security cameras for added peace of mind.
- Apps or devices with medication reminders to help manage treatment schedules.
- Emergency alert systems to call for help quickly if needed.
8. Consult a specialist
When adapting your home, professional guidance can make all the difference:
- An occupational therapist can assess your home and recommend specific modifications tailored to your needs.
- Explore grants or funding programs that may be available for home adaptations.
- Consult specialists on the best adaptive tools and assistive technology to enhance independence.
Home care you can trust
Trinity Homecare has provided compassionate home care for those with Parkinson’s for over 25 years. We passionately believe that providing care for people in the comfort of home, no matter the stage of their illness, allows them to live the life they want to live.
We firmly believe it is possible to have an enriched and meaningful life no matter what your diagnosis. Our carers are there to offer physical, mental and emotional support to help you on your life’s journey.
If you have any questions about arranging care, simply get in touch with our helpful and knowledgeable care team.
Arranging nationwide home care with Trinity is straightforward.
Simply follow these five steps:
- Call our care team
- Undergo a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your care needs and arrange a care assessment
- After the assessment, a plan of care is created
- A well-suited carer is found and placed
- Care can be adapted at any time