As someone who has worked for over a decade as a carer, our Marketing & Sales Manager, Kirstie Kalonji, truly appreciates the profound impact that an accessible home and bathroom can have on the lives of family carers. This Carers Week, she considers how these adaptations can ease our daily challenges and enhance the quality of life for both us and those we care for.
'' I'm absolutely convinced that home adaptations can significantly improve the caregiving experience. - Kirstie, Invisible Creations''
Easing the Physical Strain
Having an accessible home can make a world of difference, especially when it comes to easing the physical strain. Traditional homes just aren't set up for mobility challenges, which means a lot of lifting and manoeuvring that can really wear you out. But with modifications like wider doorways, ramps, and stairlifts, it's like a weight lifted off your shoulders. And in the bathroom, things like our grab rails, or PROCare's walk-in showers, can make everyday tasks so much safer and easier.
Boosting Safety
Keeping your loved ones safe is often at the top of a carers mind. Homes that aren't designed with mobility in mind can be risky, with the potential for falls and injuries. But by adding safety features like non-slip flooring, good lighting, and emergency alert systems, we're able to create a much safer environment.
Supporting a loved one to be independent
Having accessibility features in your home can be a game-changer for your loved one. It's amazing how it can empower someone to be more independent, which is so important for their self-esteem and happiness. When they can move around the house with just a little help, it can really boosts their sense of freedom and dignity.
Looking after your mental wellbeing
Caregiving can be really tough on your emotions, often leaving you stressed and burnt out. Making your home accessible can lift a huge weight off your shoulders. Knowing your loved one can handle many tasks on their own could ease your stress and makes your daily life much more relaxed.
Saving time for yourself
As a carer, I’ve learned that efficiency is everything. An accessible home can really streamline your daily routines. Having a well-designed bathroom with easy-to-use fixtures and adaptive equipment makes tasks like bathing so much quicker and less exhausting. This saves a ton of time, which means you can focus on other important things, like taking care of yourself, working, or just spending quality time with others.
Long-term financial savings
I know very well that making home modifications can feel like a big expense at first, but it's truly an investment that pays off in the long run. By making your home more accessible, you could reduce the need for costly in-home care services and avoid the high costs of assisted living facilities. Plus, having a safer environment means fewer accidents and healthcare costs.
Sharing the responsibilities
Making your home accessible may positively impact the family dynamic. When the space is set up to meet everyone's needs, it takes so much pressure off the main carer. Instead of one person shouldering all the responsibilities, it encourages everyone to pitch in and be part of the caregiving process. This shared effort could create a real sense of community and togetherness.
I'm absolutely convinced that making modifications can significantly improve the caregiving experience. It not only makes it safer and less overwhelming but also much more manageable. These changes provide your loved ones with greater independence and dignity, while also allowing you to maintain a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. What's even better is that with Invisible Creations and PROCare, you don't have to sacrifice style for functionality. We've designed a range of stylish mobility aids and accessible bathrooms tailored to your personal tastes. With a variety of modern finishes to choose from - so you can create a home that reflects your unique style while still prioritising accessibility and safety.