Making your patio safe for seniors

If you are a caregiver or regularly have seniors visiting your home, you'll want to ensure that your home environment does not pose any safety or health risks to seniors. Outdoor areas such as patios and verandas can be potentially risky for seniors with mobility or visual impairments. This handy guide will help you to make your patio a safe environment for seniors.

Flooring

Hard flooring is the most senior-friendly finish for your patio, ideally with a surface that is textured to provide traction to prevent it from becoming slippery when wet. As elderly people with poor mobility do not always lift their feet when walking, avoid outdoor mats or rugs as they can be tripping hazards. If your patio area has steps, paint them with a textured finish or non-slip treads, and mark the edges with reflective tape to promote visibility and safety.

Lighting

For the utmost visibility, it is important that your patio is well-lit. Increase natural light during the day by keeping large bushes pruned and shade sails light in colour. If your patio area is insufficiently lit at night, install extra outdoor lighting for increased visibility. This is particularly invaluable in winter months, when the daylight diminishes early in the evening.

Support

If there is an uneven surface or steps to access your patio, consider installing a handrail or grab bar. A securely installed handrail can provide invaluable support for a senior with mobility or visual impairment. For those in a wheelchair or walking frame, you may also want to consider installing a ramp to ensure safe and free access to the patio area.

Safety

If you have senior visitors who suffer from Alzheimer's, you will want to take some extra precautions to make certain that they remain safe on your patio area. If you have a barbeque on your patio, remove fuel sources and fire lighting equipment. Also ensure that access to your swimming pool is restricted with a lockable gate. Keep gardening tools, toxic chemicals, fishing tackle or sports equipment out of harm's way by storing them in a lockable cupboard or shed. Also store bikes, scooters, skateboards and other potential tripping hazards in another location. Keep all bushes and foliage adjacent to walkways neatly trimmed, as well as overhanging tree limbs.

For expert advice on increasing the safety of your patio for seniors, discuss your needs with a patio centre like Patioworld NSW Pty Ltd.