Create a Helpful Home Environment for the Visually Impaired

Article was submitted by Rose Quinnan, Director of Marketing at Merry Heart Health Care Center in Succasunna, N.J. For more information call 973-584-4000.

With the rising cost of health care and the value we all place on maintaining our independence and mobility, it makes sense to do anything possible to avert an accident or injury that could result in hospitalization or an extended recuperation.

For many reasons, the elderly often have challenges related to poor vision. Aside from obvious helpful changes such as large print keypads on telephones and large numerals on clocks, there are many simple ways to create a safer, more livable environment for the visually impaired. The first and most important consideration is proper lighting. Areas of recreation, reading, and walking, especially stairwells, should all be well lighted. Replace burned out bulbs as soon as possible. A factor that should not be overlooked is the visually disorienting effect of glare. Shiny floors may look lovely, but they are hazardous to someone who can't see well. Glare should be reduced from windows by using curtains, solar reflective glass, or blinds. Use non-skid, non-glare products to clean and polish floors. Throw rugs are tripping traps to the visually impaired, especially if the color of the rug is similar to the floor. It is a good idea to eliminate them entirely. Another important consideration is proper and safe placement of furniture. Be certain that the furnishings of rooms, especially lamps, and electrical cords are not intruding onto the path of normal traffic flow. Pay attention to the walking hazard presented by glass doors, such as sliders to a deck. Affix a bright colored band, or a colorful motif to the glass at eye level to prevent partially-sighted persons from accidentally bumping into them. It is also very helpful to make use of contrast and color to orient and direct the visually impaired. By placing light colored objects against a dark background, they are much easier to see and locate. For example, use brown switch and outlet plates on white walls. Mark the edges of steps, ramps, and landings with a contrasting bright color paint or tape to provide more visual cues for safer walking.

Access to the home should also be made safe for walking. Cracks or irregularities in walkway surfaces are hazardous and should be repaired. It is desirable to define clearly the edges of paths and sidewalks with different colors and textures. Make use of plants, flowers or colored stones to emphasize pavement edges. Hedges, bushes and tree limbs should not encroach onto footpaths. Reduce the number of steps up as much as possible. Well marked, brightly colored inclines and ramps are much safer and easier to use.

Although many of these suggestions may seem like common sense, so often the obvious is overlooked. It is wise to make changes that give the visually impaired as safe an environment as possible. With attention to small details, a costly accident could easily be avoided.

Editor's Note: Merry Heart is a continuum of care community with three Morris County locations. Merry Heart has provided quality elder care to area seniors since 1956. For more information call 973-584-4000.