How to Prepare for In-Home Care

Making thoughtful changes around the house can make a big difference to someone who needs home care.

Whether your loved one is recovering from surgery, managing a health condition, or wanting to stay at home as they age, even minor adjustments can improve their safety and comfort.

Follow these 5 easy steps to prepare your home for home care.

Step 1 - Take a Look Around

The first step is to walk through your loved one’s home and consider their day-to-day needs.

Taking a good look around will help you determine how the current set-up helps or hinders comfort, security, and mobility.

Try to:

Keep all doors clear of clutter and tripping hazards.
Make sure hallways and doorways have space for mobility aids
Add light to dark spaces to prevent falls

Consider installing external access ramps if needed so your loved one can move about freely.

Step 2 - Fall Prevention

Falls are a significant risk for those needing in-home care. Thankfully, a few simple tweaks can make the home safer.

How to prevent falls:

Secure or remove rugs to prevent slipping.
Add grab bars in the bathroom and along staircases.
Create clear pathways around furniture.
Use non-slip mats in bathrooms and kitchens.
Install motion-sensor lights to help with safe movement at night.

Step 3 - Equip the Home

Installing the right equipment makes daily routines smoother and safer for everyone involved in your loved one’s home care.

The following tools and appliances are helpful for those needing in-home care:

Hospital Bed: Ideal if your loved one has limited mobility or needs to change positions frequently.

Lift Assist Devices: Make transfers between bed, chair, or bathroom simpler and more secure.

Shower Supports: Shower chairs and handheld showerheads make washing more comfortable and less risky.

Raised Toilet Seat: Reduces strain when using the loo.

Medical Alert System: Offers quick access to emergency support.

Step 4 - Create an Inviting, Practical Space

As well as helping with your loved one’s physical needs, a comfortable, well-organised space can also raise their spirits.

How to make the home cosy and supportive:

Store frequently used items, like the TV remote, within easy reach.
Reduce clutter to create a safe, easy-to-navigate space.
Maintain a suitable room temperature.
Provide comfortable seating with cushions and blankets.

Step 5 - Work with Professionals

Healthcare professionals like Apollo Care Liverpool can help you create a home tailored to your loved ones’ needs.

Ways to work together effectively:

Arrange a home assessment by an occupational therapist for personalised advice.
Speak with specialist home care providers about potential home adjustments.
Regularly reassess the home set-up to meet changing needs.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for in-home care can feel overwhelming.

However, with some planning and minor adjustments, you can improve your loved one’s quality of life and find peace of mind knowing they’re in the place they love most – home.