We pay a lot of attention to design trends, unique colour combinations, and classy flooring materials when planning our kitchen decor. One factor that is often ignored in our excitement for a grand kitchen design is the functionality where our elderly parents are concerned.
With age, the physical limitations of the elderly increase. Bending becomes a problem, and maladies such as frozen shoulders or arthritis make it difficult for them to reach for things on the top shelves. While you can’t change the whole design to suit their needs, a few adjustments in your modular kitchen designs can make the area comfortable for you and your parents.
So, what are the things you should keep in mind? Let’s find out.
Lighting is Important
Weakening eyesight makes it difficult for the elderly to find their way around the house. This is especially true for the kitchen, where there are a variety of surfaces and appliances. A well-lit kitchen becomes essential. It makes the kitchen environment safe for them when they handle appliances and sharp objects.
A light switch in the doorway is a must. Concealed lighting on the countertops is another option you can consider.
Pullout Pantries for Easy Access
Bending down to find the right spice for curry powder is not easy when age creeps up on you. When you plan your kitchen design for the elderly, be sure to install pullout pantries for items such as spices, herbs, and cereals so that they are easily accessible. This way, the elderly can avoid injuring their back and knees.
Reworking the Triangle Rule
Modular kitchen design dictates that the kitchen’s three main areas, the stove, the sink, and the fridge, should form a triangle for greater efficiency and movement. While this is true, it might not work as well for the elderly, as it can be challenging to lift heavy pots and pans and carry them to the sink.
Keeping the sink close to the stove helps a lot. However, keep a small distance to avoid burns due to oil splatter.
Keeping the sink directly opposite cuts down the distance and keeps water from splashing into the oil.
Skid-Proof Flooring
Kitchen flooring can be hazardous, especially for the elderly. There are chances of spillage while cooking or washing dishes. If non-slip flooring is not possible, you may want to consider anti-skid mats near the wet areas to avoid falls.
Rounded Corners on Furniture
Sharp corners on countertops or the tabletop can cause injuries in case of a fall. Even banging an elbow on a sharp edge can be problematic, especially for people with diabetes. Round edges are a better bet. Be sure that the handles on the drawers are not a safety hazard.
Fashionable kitchen stools are often too tall and lack stability. Opt for comfortable seats with a backrest if possible. If all else fails, keep a chair for your elderly to sit on.
Kitchen Corner Accessibility
Kitchen corners are blind zones and not easy to reach. For the elderly, it’s an almost impossible task. However, you shouldn’t have to waste that space, especially in small apartments. Lazy-susan turntables are a better bet, and most modular kitchens have this facility.
Turntables make it easy to reach for pots and pans, as all you have to do is turn the stand.
Cooking Tools within Easy Reach
Drawers stuffed with cooking tools may not be such a good idea if you have an elderly parent staying with you. Use spoon holders or jugs to keep your spoons, spatulas, and other cooking implements for easy reach on the kitchen countertop.
Knife blocks are a better option than knives in the drawer, as there is less chance of cuts and scrapes. Hanging cooking pans on hooks on the wall is another way to make life easy for the elderly.
Wall-Mounted Appliances
Appliances take up a lot of room on a kitchen counter. Reaching for the main switch too can be difficult for the elderly. Wall-mounted appliances in a modular kitchen are easier to use. They are safer, too, as there is no chance of electric shock due to splashing water from the sink nearby.
Counter Space
Extra cooking space on the countertop on both sides of the kitchen is something that you should consider, as it gives freedom of movement when two people are working together.
Congested cooking areas are hazardous when there are hot curries on the countertop or stove. The elderly are especially vulnerable, as they might have balance issues.
Sink Matters
The position of the water spout in your sink should be comfortable to use so that your loved one doesn’t have to bend to reach for the tap. The water stream should ideally be controlled to avoid spillage on the floor.
Ensure that scrub pads, soap, and handwash are within easy reach.
Safety for the elderly in a kitchen environment is essential. An injury or fall can have disastrous repercussions for your elderly parent and the whole family. For tips on making your kitchen elderly-friendly, check out what HomeLane has to say on the subject.
