Having senior family or friends visit is a wonderful way to reconnect, but ensuring your home is comfortable and safe for them is just as important. For guests with mobility limitations or who use assistive devices like walkers or wheelchairs, a thoughtfully prepared guest room can make all the difference in how welcome and relaxed they feel.
Here’s how to create a senior-friendly guest room that’s both accessible and inviting!
Pick an Easy-to-Access Room
If you have a bedroom on the main floor, that’s usually the best choice. Stairs can be challenging for seniors, especially those with joint pain, balance issues, or limited mobility. If the guest room is located on an upper floor, consider installing a stairlift to make access easier and safer. Stairlifts provide a reliable way for guests to navigate levels of the home without the physical strain of climbing stairs.
Make Space for Movement
Remove unnecessary furniture or décor to clear wide, open paths around the bed and toward the bathroom. Aim for at least 36 inches of clearance so guests using a wheelchair, walker, or cane can navigate easily. Choose a bed that’s firm and not too low—around 20 to 23 inches from the floor is ideal for safe transfers.
Improve Lighting and Visibility
Good lighting reduces the risk of tripping or disorientation at night. Install motion-sensor nightlights in the hallway, bedroom, and bathroom. Keep lamps within reach and use bulbs bright enough to illuminate the space well. Avoid dark rugs or dim corners that can hide potential trip hazards.
Add Senior-Friendly Essentials
Simple additions can make a big impact:
- Non-slip rugs or no rugs at all
- A grab bar or safety pole near the bed
- A bedside chair or bench for dressing
- A storage basket within reach for personal items
- An easily accessible power strip for charging devices
Don’t Forget the Bathroom
If your guest will be using a nearby bathroom, ensure it’s safe and accessible. Consider adding grab bars near the toilet and in the shower, a raised toilet seat, or a bath bench. These modifications help prevent slips and provide additional support during daily routines.
Make Their Stay Safe and Comfortable
Creating an accessible guest space shows care and consideration—and it doesn’t take a full remodel to do it. Small updates like clear walkways, better lighting, and support tools go a long way in making seniors feel safe and at ease during their stay.
If you want to make your home more accessible for visiting loved ones, BEK Medical offers a wide selection of mobility equipment and home modification services—from basic bathroom safety necessities to stairlifts, wheelchair ramps, and even pool and spa lifts; we have it all!
Visit us online today to explore simple solutions that make your home more welcoming for every guest.
