Spring Cleaning for A Safe Home: A Practical Guide for Clients & Their Families

As the vibrant colours of spring start to bloom, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate your living space and create a safer, happier home environment! At Cambrette Care, we recognise the importance of personal choice in how individuals choose to live, and we always support people to keep their homes arranged in a way that is comfortable for them. This article is not about suggestions that would remove choice but includes some simple ideas that can be helpful, especially when someone is beginning to need more support, either physically due to reduced mobility or when learning to live with the symptoms of dementia. These recommendations focus on creating a safe haven for you or your loved one, fully acknowledging that personal preferences matter.

Start Small and Focused:

Embark on any spring-cleaning journey gently and slowly, concentrating on one area at a time. Tackling the entire house at once can be overwhelming, and it is also important to allow people time to adapt. Start with a manageable space, such as a bedroom or living room, and gradually work your way through - remember, it's about progress, not perfection!

Decluttering for Safety:

Clearing pathways not only enhances safety but can also create a more pleasant living space. Making small changes, such as decluttering common areas and removing unnecessary items can significantly reduce the risk of falls or accidents. If you are supporting someone through a declutter, remember personal choice is pivotal, and checking with them before throwing anything away is important to ensure that they maintain a sense of agency over their own home.

Organising Medications and Supplies:

For those who need external home care, or may have support from different people throughout, organising medications and supplies is crucial. Being well-organised helps ensure that necessary treatments are administered on time, no matter who is assisting them. Dispose of expired medications safely, consolidate duplicates, and use containers and shelves for easy accessibility. If you have any uncertainty about medication disposal, this is something that Cambrette Care can support you with.

Storage Solutions and Labelling:

Easy-to-access storage solutions can help keep belongings organised and assist with memory and independence. Baskets, bins, and shelves reduce clutter, making it simple for people to find what they need. Labelling storage containers and drawers can also help those with visual or memory impairments.

Deep Cleaning for Health:

Spring cleaning is an opportunity to address any hygiene and health concerns. Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces, reducing the risk of infection. Cleaning not only reduces the risk of infection for those who may have compromised immune systems but can create a fresh and positive sense of well-being in the home.

Lighting Matters:

Getting the right lighting, especially for seniors or those with visual impairments, can make a real difference to safety, mood, and well-being. If adding lighting, choose lamps and light switches that are easy to turn on and off. Clean windows to maximise natural light and consider installing brighter bulbs in key areas. Adequate lighting not only reduces the risk of accidents but can really brighten up a home!

Home Modifications for Accessibility:

Accessibility modifications can help keep people independent and in their own homes for longer. These may include installing handrails in bathrooms, ramps for easier entry and exit, or non-slip mats in high-risk areas. If individuals with mobility challenges are comfortable with these changes, they can create a significantly safer home.

Personalising the Living Space:

While safety is important, a home needs to feel like a home! Incorporate elements that bring joy and comfort, such as favourite photos, familiar decorations, or cherished items. Balancing safety with personalisation enhances mental well-being and respects the individual's unique preferences.

Conclusion:

Spring cleaning is not just about tidying up; it's a holistic approach to creating a safer and happier home environment while respecting personal choices and preferences. At Cambrette all of our clients have chosen to stay in their own homes because that is where they feel safe and happy, and while changes can be necessary to accommodate changing needs, it’s important that a home remains a home. If you have a loved one who you think could benefit from support in their home and would like a confidential chat about how Cambrette can support you, please get in touch at 01534 633083 or email info@cambrette.com.