Enhancing independence for a person who is sight impaired can be as straightforward as simple home modifications that make activities safer and more convenient. Evaluating and modifying the home does not have to be expensive or difficult. The key things to keep in mind are to reduce clutter and pay special attention to the basic concepts of lighting, color and contrast.
Useful adaptations around the house include:
Lighting
- Try to maintain continuous lighting levels throughout the home. If possible, install supplementary lighting in entryways, hallways, and at the top and bottom of each staircase to eliminate shadows or excessively bright areas.
- Install fluorescent ceiling fixtures for general room lighting, supplemented with incandescent, LED, or halogen lighting in desk lamps, table lamps, and floor fixtures.
Kitchen
- Use white plates on a dark tablecloth, or place dark dishes on a white or light-colored cloth. If possible, avoid using clear glass cups and dishes.
- Use brightly colored raised marking dots on the stove, oven, and microwave controls to allow for easier adjustments.
Bedrooms
- Use a bedside lamp with a “clap-on” feature, or one that can activate by simply touching the base.
- Install flexible-arm lamps wherever needed for reading or identifying clothing and medication.
For more resources and information for those with low vision, click here.
Consider home care as an option to help a person with low vision adapt and continue performing activities of daily living. An experienced caregiving team such as at Live Free Home Health Care will identify a person’s specific challenges with activities of daily living and help to provide solutions. These solutions can mean the difference between living safely in the comfort of home or a move elsewhere. For more information about how we can help with home care services in Concord and Central New Hampshire and the rest of the Lakes region, contact us today at 603-217-0149.