Safety Features You Should Look for in Every Independent Living Apartment
Comfort and convenience should be at the forefront of your requirements when looking for your next independent living apartment. But safety shouldn’t be far from mind either. Having the proper safety features in place can give you peace of mind throughout your day and allow you to live life to the fullest of your independence.
Several factors influence your safety and comfort, from the physical arrangement of your living space to the security protocols in place for the entire community. Read on to learn what safety features you should look for when searching for your next senior living apartment so you can choose a place that feels right for you now and years down the road.
What Safety Features Should You Look For in an Independent Living Apartment?
When touring independent living apartments, prioritize key safety features like:
- Emergency alert systems
- Walk-in showers with safety bars
- Slip-resistant flooring
- Single-level floor plan
- Bright, uniform lighting
- Lever-style door handles
- Conveniently placed electrical outlets
- Wide doorways and hallways
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Emergency Alert Systems
Imagine touring apartment communities and knowing that help is literally just the push of a button away. Modern communities understand your safety is their priority when they include easy-access emergency alert systems.
You’ll find these come in the form of pull cords strategically placed in the bathroom and by the bed or even a wearable smart pendant you can take with you wherever you go in the home. If you ever fall suddenly, feel ill or simply need help for any reason at any time, pressing the button will instantly notify trained staff or emergency medical professionals.
Slip-Resistant Flooring
Notice what you will be stepping on each day as you tour the community. You should notice and feel slip-resistant floors underneath your feet. Whether you’re wearing shoes, sandals, slippers or just walking around in your socks.
It’s best to seek out places with low-pile carpets that won’t snag on a walker, or perhaps non-slip luxury vinyl tiles that are a breeze to clean if something spills. You want to make sure you have a solid grip on the ground below you every step of the way.
Single-Level Floor Plan
Your independent living apartment should be all on one level. You never know where a tripping hazard is going to appear so watch out for raised entry ways between rooms, surprise interior stairs and awkward transitions from carpet to hardwood or tile.
A one level floor plan allows you to walk from your bedroom to your living room without having to suddenly go up or down. Your apartment will feel more spacious and ridiculously easy to maneuver around.
Walk-In Showers with Safety Bars
The bathroom is easily one of the most crucial rooms to inspect. You deserve to feel calm and comfortable in the shower without fearing you may slip. Ideally, your walk-in shower will have a low or no-threshold entrance so you won’t ever have to stub your toe or roll over a tall tub edge to get into the shower.
Paired with thick, well-installed grab bars by the shower seat and toilet, you’ll always have something secure to hold on to. Taking a shower will feel 100% independent, safe, and truly rejuvenating every morning.
Bright, Even Lighting
Great lighting is something many people do not think about but is crucial to staying safe and mobile in your home. You want to look for apartments that offer bright, even lighting. This completely eradicates any dark corners or shadows where a rogue sneaker or power cord can hide.
Find apartments with big windows to let in natural light, overhead fixtures that are evenly spaced, and light switches that are within easy reach by every doorway. When your walking path is well lit, you can get around at night without having to worry about straining your eyes or tripping.
Lever-Style Door Handles
How many times a day do you turn a doorknob? Whether it’s opening a door or turning on a faucet, round doorknobs can be extremely irritating to twist through. What if your hands aren’t cooperating that day because of arthritis or stiffness?
Lever-style door handles are one of the subtle, but key features to look for when you’re looking for an apartment. You do not need a full grip to use them. You can press down with your hand, wrist, or even your forearm to open the door. That simple adjustment can make everyday chores feel effortless and hassle-free.
Accessible Outlets
You may not realize the importance of outlet placements until you move into your new apartment and try to plug something in. Most outlets are around waist level or lower which means you have to bend over at the waist or go down on your knees to plug something in.
A senior living home that focus on safety have their outlets placed higher on the wall. No more hurting your back or feeling dizzy from bending over to plug in your phone charger, TV, or vacuum.
Wide Doorways and Hallways
When you’re looking around, check out how much space there is in the hallways between rooms. Look for apartments with wide doorways and hallways that allow for ample space to move furniture around. Even if you don’t require the extra space right now, you’ll appreciate it later when you’re maneuvering walkers or wheelchairs around your home.
Or, perhaps you simply don’t want your knuckles to bump every time you move a heavy laundry basket down a hallway. Either way, having ample hallway space will maintain an airy atmosphere and ensure your home can accommodate future requirements.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
True peace of mind comes from knowing your home is watching over you, even when you’re fast asleep. Check to see if the senior living community has professionally monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. These devices are hooked into the community’s alarm system.
If one of the sensors is triggered, the building’s central staff and fire department are alerted. You’re covered whether or not you can actually reach out for assistance. Having this extra layer of protection can give you comfort knowing your family is safe.
Ready to Experience an Independent Living Home Built Around Your Safety? Schedule Your Visit to Asher Point Texarkana Today
Finding the perfect independent living apartment lets you have peace of mind without giving up your freedom. When you choose a home that has these safety features, you can rest easy knowing that your independence is secure and you can live your best life. After all, isn’t that what retirement is all about?
If you are looking for senior retirement homes in Texarkana that offers the perfect balance of comfort, safety, and fun, look no further than Asher Point of Texarkana. We can’t wait to show you your new apartment. Contact us today to check out our roomy floorplans, see our top-of-the-line safety amenities, and get a tour of the neighborhood.
