Whether you are a a renter or a buyer, before selecting a property in Thailand to call your new home consider the points below. Many modernized properties in Thailand will have already addressed several of these things, and existing homes can be made senior-safe with some reasonable modifications.
- Stairs can be very dangerous for older people who have bad joints or are at risk for serious falls. If possible, move the main living quarters, including bedrooms, to the ground floor. If this is not an option, install handrails on both sides of the stairway, and line the edge of each step with a non-skid adhesive strip to help prevent slips and falls.
- Further reduce the risk of tripping and falling by making all floors slip-resistant, such as by placing non-skid mats under the rugs (or removing the rugs completely). Make sure floors between different rooms are level, and consider whether you can widen spaces, such as doorways, if you need better walker or wheelchair access.
- Make sure every room or area in the home is well lit; this includes staircases, entryways and hallways. Use full-spectrum light bulbs, with reduced glare, and/or motion sensor lights, if applicable. Also, install large illuminated rocker-type light switches – these are easier to see and operate than the standard ones.
- Strategically place large pieces of sturdy furniture around a large room. This offers extra support should elders wish to walk around while gripping onto something.
- Change traditional rounded doorknobs into level-style handles, as these are easier for seniors, especially those with arthritis, to open.
- As most accidents occur in the bathroom, you may need to entirely renovate this space. First, remove the bathtub and install a step-in shower with a bath seat or chair (both free-standing and wall-mounted models are available), as well as a hand-held showerhead, which is easier to use while sitting down. Also, fit the entire space with a non-skid matte tile floor (ideally, the floor should also be completely level), and install grab bars in the bathing and toilet areas to ensure greater safety. For the sink, use a single-handled and lever-type faucet control for ease of operation.
- Other simple, senior-friendly things you can do include eliminating clutter to lessen the risk of accidental falls, and moving electrical appliance and telephone cords out of pathways. Also, keep commonly used items on raised surfaces to reduce the need for bending down.
- Outside the house, consider the entryways and see if mini-ramps can be installed for easier access into and out of the home. As with the above, install appropriate lighting, such as illuminated pathways and/or motion sensor garden lights, to boost visibility and thereby minimize accidents.
This list of ideas for safe senior living is not conclusive. If you think we missed any tips on how to make your house or condo in Thailand safer for senior citizens, please comment below.