Simple Changes That Make Aging in Place Safer for Those with Low Vision

Author

HomeWell Care Services

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Homewell

Posted on

Jul 20, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

by Michelle Cone, Senior Vice President of Training and Brand Programs at HomeWell Franchising Inc.®

A 2016 study in JAMA Ophthalmology projects that the number of blind and visually impaired Americans will double by 2050. The reason behind this spike? For homecare providers, the answer should come as no surprise—age.

Aging is the greatest contributing factor to low vision disorders, with more than 12 million Americans aged 40 and older experiencing some level of vision impairment. At the rate the senior population is increasing, providers are facing the largest number of vision-impaired clients they have ever experienced.

For homecare providers, these predictions illuminate a compelling need and an opportunity: Older adults with vision loss need specialty care support developed explicitly to address the challenges associated with low vision. By tailoring services to clients living with low vision, providers nationwide can empower vision-impaired seniors in their communities to thrive at home and enjoy the liberties of aging in place. Simultaneously, they solidify their roles within the care continuum by helping reduce hospital readmission rates.

A More Mindful Approach

The likelihood of needing to provide care to low-vision clients is already high, as many seniors experience some degree of vision impairment. There are even estimates that one in three individuals has some form of vision-reducing eye disease by age 65. Hence, initial client home assessments typically account for potential hazards or obstructions in the hallways and other high-traffic areas of the home to prevent falls for vision-impaired clients. So, why should in-home care and home medical equipment providers develop a program specifically for low vision?

Brand programs thrive on specificity, and a well-executed low-vision program is no exception, as it can enhance the appeal of your care to potential clients and their families. This begs the question: What particular needs should a low-vision program address?

1. Fall Prevention

Falls pose a serious threat to the well-being and independence of older adults, as one slip can result in a severe injury and a trip to the emergency room. Each year, one in four Americans age 65 and older experiences a fall, and impaired vision more than doubles this fall risk.

For seniors struggling to see, the repercussions of a potential fall can cause a paralyzing fear and withdrawal from performing everyday tasks or their favorite hobbies. A study published in the journal “Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science” found that 40% to 50% of older adults with chronic eye disorders limited their activities because they feared falling, putting them at greater risk for social isolation, immobility and disability.

Vision impairment and fall risk go together, as the latter is often a direct result of low vision, but both require individual attention. Fortunately, by properly equipping a home for low-vision clients, organizations can address potential hazards in each client’s residence to prevent falls and preserve their confidence and health.

2. Mental Health

A 2020 study from the National Library of Medicine found that up to 8.6% of older adults with vision loss met the criteria for a depressive disorder. Between 10.9% and 43% reported clinically significant levels of depressive symptoms, both noticeably higher percentages than those found in the general aging population. The same study revealed that seniors with vision impairment exhibited more anxiety symptoms than those with other health conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular problems.

Because vision loss is usually gradual, seniors and their loved ones may not be aware of how compromised their vision has become, posing a greater risk to their safety. Simply locating items around the house or enjoying activities such as gardening or cooking can become dangerous for certain older adults and consequently hinder their enjoyment and independence in living at home.

3. A Need for Color & Contrast in the Home

Marking areas of the home using a bright array of colors and contrasting light against dark elements can help clients navigate their homes and distinguish between household items, such as a favorite chair, and medical items, such as prescription bottles.
Color
Bright colors that reflect light are generally the easiest to see, especially vivid primary colors such as red, orange and yellow. Bright contrast tape, stickers or sticky notes in fluorescent colors can be used to mark changes in levels like stairs, identify household items like documents or bills, and warn clients of potential hazards such as doors or cabinets left ajar. Bright decorative elements like vibrant throw pillows, blankets or magnets can assist clients in locating furniture or appliances in their homes. Grab bars that are available in bright colors would also be useful to low-vision customers.

Contrast
Enhancing the contrast of light against dark or vice versa in clients’ homes has proven beneficial. Consider creating contrasting backgrounds, such as a dark switch plate behind a light-colored switch, or placing dark objects against lighter backgrounds. For example, a pale green chair can easily disappear in front of a yellow wall. Incorporating a dark blue throw blanket or slipcover can help clients identify this furniture against the yellow wall. Updating paint colors to provide more contrast is also an option, if the senior approves.

It is equally important to avoid or remove items that are transparent or too easily blend in with their surroundings, like glass items. In addition, try to avoid using patterned materials when possible, as contrasting is most effective using solid colors. This is something to keep in mind as a provider of lift chairs or other home furnishings.

4. Low Vision Tasks & Errands

Household tasks and certain errands, such as shopping or traveling to and from appointments, can be dangerous for low-vision clients to perform. Depending on the degree of their visual impairment, a caregiver may need to complete certain tasks or assist the client by performing any duties or steps requiring keen eyesight. These tasks can include meal preparation, laundry and light housekeeping.

While these services may fall under the category of general homecare, including and promoting them in your low-vision program helps ensure clients and their families that your caregivers and care managers are mindful of any potential needs resulting from vision impairment.

Regular eye exams are also critical to seniors since age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss for individuals aged 50 or older. As seniors age, their risk or degree of vision impairment increases. The National Eye Institute recommends that adults over 60 receive a comprehensive eye exam with dilation every one to two years. While the exam is not to be carried out by a caregiver, it is helpful for homecare providers and caregivers to be aware of the recommended frequency of eye exams and be prepared to transport their clients to and from appointments.

Low Vision in the Care Continuum

As a homecare provider, you play a pivotal role in the care continuum. As we face the largest elderly population in our nation’s history, health care systems will need to lean on your expertise more than ever to support their patients’ journeys and avoid readmission into their system.

Diversifying your offerings and tailoring your care through brand programs, such as low vision, reinforces your value in the eyes of clients, their families, and both the homecare and health care industry.

  • To view the original version of this article visit homewellcares.com/
  • Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.

Other Articles You May Like

Providing Living Assistance without Intruding

If you or a loved one needs more hands-on care, living assistance can help put your mind at ease. Living assistance is flexible, personalized, and fosters a safe home environment while maintaining a sense of independence and privacy. It can give you or your loved one the freedom to make everyday choices and receive a helping hand whenever needed.At St. Barnabas, we understand that the transition from full to partial independence isnt easy and how important it is to ensure your needs and preferences are both addressed. Here are a few ways living assistance is provided without intruding.Receiving Help As NeededEncouraging independence is one way to foster non-intrusive assistance. At a senior living assistance campus, the staff is always available to lend a hand without eliminating decision-making. You or your loved one can retain a sense of autonomy by participating in the daily tasks and chores and receiving help on an as-needed basis. Intervention comes in varying degrees, depending on individual ability. A personalized care plan may include: Incontinence support Wheelchair assistance Medication management Help with grooming, dressing, and bathing Wound, ostomy, or catheter care Care staff is attentive and sensitive to your needs, and they can offer a little help throughout the day or when needed. By participating in daily activities, you or your loved one can plan your day based on your personal preferences.Collaborative SchedulingAs an alternative to making a pre-set schedule and asking the resident to stick to it, working together to create a personal care plan that suits everyone can be beneficial. When it comes to weekly meals, exercise routines, and social activities, residents have the freedom to choose. Maybe they enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals, or perhaps they like to do stretching exercises versus walks. Wherever passions lie, the staff can incorporate those into the regular daily routine to help encourage healthy living and socialization in ways that suit personal preferences.Collaborating with staff can also ensure that activities are both enjoyable and safe. When a resident cant do an activity they love, the team can work with them to find ways to feel that same sense of joy without putting them in danger.Respecting Boundaries and Private SpacesSpending time alone gives us a chance to relax, decompress, and gather our thoughts. In a living assistance care center, its imperative that residents still have some time for themselves. Caregivers respect boundaries and private spaces. Before entering a room, they knock on the door and wait for the resident to respond. Designating a private area for residents to turn to when they feel overwhelmed also aids in creating independence and ultimately gives them a space to de-stress and unwind.Places like the bathroom or shower are understandably uncomfortable areas for intrusion, so caregivers are sure to give residents the space they need to complete these tasks in private. The staff still makes sure the resident is safe by remaining nearby and listening for signs that something may be wrong. Learn More about Living Assistance at St. Barnabas Serving the Greater Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, including Allegheny, Beaver, and Butler counties, St. Barnabas is here to give you the support you need. With a dedication to providing comfortable and compassionate living assistance services, you can count on us for all of your care requirements. To learn more about our senior living assistance program, contact us today.

Preventing Falls at Home: A Western PA Checklist for Families

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adultsand they often result in long-term consequences like hip fractures, reduced independence, or the need for assisted living. In fact, one in four seniors over the age of 65 falls each year. For families across Western Pennsylvania, where many seniors are still living at home in older houses with stairs, uneven flooring, or poor lighting, fall prevention isnt just a health concernits a quality-of-life issue.At CarePatrol of Western PA, we work closely with families to ensure their loved ones can age safely at homeor transition to the right level of care when needed. Whether your parent lives in Mt. Lebanon, Monroeville, Cranberry Township, or Beaver County, this local checklist can help you make the home a safer place.Why Fall Prevention Matters in Western PAMany homes in Western PA were built decades ago and may include: Narrow hallways or staircases Multi-level layouts with multiple steps between rooms Slippery basement laundry areas Aging outdoor walkways affected by freeze-thaw cycles These architectural quirks, combined with common age-related changes like decreased balance, vision loss, and slower reaction times, create a perfect storm for falls. The good news? Most falls are preventable with a proactive approach.Common Risk Factors for Falls Among SeniorsUnderstanding what contributes to falls can help families take targeted action. Some of the most common risk factors include: Poor lighting Loose rugs and cords Cluttered walking paths Poorly fitting footwear Lack of grab bars or handrails Medication side effects (e.g., dizziness or drowsiness) Declining strength, balance, or vision By addressing these factors, you can reduce the chance of an accidentand the stress that comes with it.Designed for Western PA HomesBelow is a practical checklist you can use to assess your loved ones home. Aim to complete this with themideally before winter sets in or before a health event forces changes.When to Consider Additional SupportIf your loved one is already struggling with balance, vision, or recovering from a fall, it may be time to consider more structured helpeither through in-home caregivers or a transition to assisted living.Here are a few red flags that the home may no longer be a safe environment: Multiple falls in the past 6 months Difficulty navigating stairs or walking without support Missed medications due to mobility issues Isolating at home due to fear of falling Home is too difficult to modify (e.g., steep staircases, inaccessible bathroom) At CarePatrol, we can help you assess the home environment, care needs, and explore safer living optionsall at no cost to your family.Youre Not in This AloneFall prevention isnt about taking away independenceits about preserving it. The sooner your family takes action, the longer your loved one can live safely, whether at home or in a community designed for their needs.At CarePatrol of Western PA, were here to help families from Butler to Greensburg, Washington to Beaver make safer, smarter decisions about aging well. Our local advisors can assess your loved ones risk for falls, recommend in-home care, and guide you through transitions to senior living when appropriate.Ready to Take the First Step?Lets prevent the next fall before it happens. Contact CarePatrol of Western PA today for a free care consultation and home safety discussion.

From Hospital Discharge to Safe Recovery: Western PA Resources Every Family Should Know

From Hospital Discharge to Safe Recovery: Western PA Resources Every Family Should KnowLeaving the hospital is just the first step in recovery. In Western Pennsylvaniawhere seniors often live independently in suburban and rural communitiescareful planning and the right support can dramatically reduce readmissions and help loved ones regain strength at home. Heres a roadmap of essential resources every family should know.Key Transitional Support ServicesTransitioning home safely involves coordinating medical care, home supports, and community resources. Below are five cornerstone programs and agencies that work together to smooth that transition.How These Resources Work TogetherDischarge Planning (UPMC & Other Hospitals)Beginning 12 days before discharge, your hospitals discharge planner will draft a personalized plan covering medications, follow-up appointments, home-safety needs, and recommended home-health services upmc.comupmc.com.Transition Coaching (WPA CCTP)Within 30 days of referral, a coach from the Community Care Transitions Program meets with youeither in-hospital or at hometo ensure youve connected with home-health agencies, durable medical equipment suppliers, and your Area Agency on Aging cms.gov.Home Health & Nursing SupportAgencies like the Visiting Nurses Association provide skilled nursing visits, physical or occupational therapy, and remote monitoring to catch complications earlyreducing emergency calls and readmissions.Medical Advocacy & Ongoing CoordinationIf multiple providers are involved or care plans shift, IKORs RN Patient Advocates help coordinate across specialists, clarify orders, and adjust support levelsso nothing falls through the cracks.Long-Term Supports & Caregiver ResourcesCounty Area Agencies on Aging and organizations like Family Caregiver Alliance offer workshops, respite care grants, home-modification assistance, and peer coachinghelping families sustain safe, dignified care over weeks and months.Tips for a Smooth TransitionBe Proactive: Meet your discharge planner early. Prepare questions about home adaptations, medication side effects, and warning signs.Engage Multiple Resources: Dont rely on a single agencycombine nursing visits, transition coaching, and caregiver education for comprehensive support.Secure Home-Safety Improvements: Ask your Area Agency on Aging about minor repair programs (grab bars, ramps) before discharge.Use 24/7 Support Lines: Keep IKOR or your home-health agency on-call number handy for any urgent medication or care-coordination issues.Plan Follow-Up Appointments Immediately: Schedule primary care and specialist visits within 710 days of discharge to catch early complications.A coordinated, multi-agency approach transforms a potentially risky homecoming into a confident, well-supported recovery journey. If youre planning a hospital discharge for a loved one in Western Pennsylvania, reach out to CarePatrol of Western Pennsylvania for a free consultation. Well help you navigate these programs, arrange tours of post-acute care providers, and ensure a safe, smooth recovery at home.

Local Services By This Author

HomeWell Care Services

Non-Medical 13100 Westlinks Terrace, Fort Myers, Florida, 33913

Our Approach:HomeWell Care Services is committed to providing the highest quality of in-home care and peace of mind for families in Lee and Northern Collier Counties. We offer personalized care plans tailored to each individual's needs.Our Services:We offer a range of services to meet your needs, including companion care, personal care, specialty care, and more. Our signature programs, such as GoHomeWell and SureStep, are designed to safeguard and strengthen your well-being for the long term.Types of Care:Companion Care: Providing companionship and a quality home life environment.Personal Care: Assisting with basic tasks of daily living to maintain independence.Specialty Care: Additional support for advanced health issues.Hospice Care Support: Providing comfort and care for those with terminal illnesses.Palliative Care Support: Enhancing quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses.Fall Prevention: Implementing strategies to reduce the risk of falls.Low Vision: Supporting individuals with vision impairments.Respite Care: Providing temporary relief for primary caregivers.Alzheimers & Dementia Care: Specialized care for those with memory loss.Chronic Conditions Care: Managing care for individuals with ongoing health issues.Transportation: Assisting with transportation to appointments and errands.Transitional Care: Supporting individuals transitioning from hospital to home.Couples Care: Providing care for couples who wish to remain together.Elderly Support: Addressing the unique needs of elderly individuals.Adults under 65: Providing care for adults under 65 with specific needs.Facility Support: Supporting care facilities with staffing and care management.Frequency of Care:Hourly: Care provided on an hourly basis as needed.24-Hour: Around-the-clock care for those who require constant support.Live-in: Caregivers live with clients to provide continuous care.HomeWell Cares:Our commitment to compassionate care extends beyond our services. We actively engage with our community through our Front Porch Blog, providing valuable resources and information.Meet the Team:Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you every step of the way. From our expert Care Managers to our compassionate caregivers, we are committed to your well-being.Jobs:Interested in joining our team? Explore career opportunities with HomeWell Care Services and make a difference in the lives of others.Partnerships:We collaborate with local organizations and healthcare providers to ensure our clients receive comprehensive care and support.Resources:Access helpful resources, including guides on how to talk to your aging loved one about home care and determining if home care is right for your family.Contact Us:For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 239-666-2339.

HomeWell Care Services

Home Health 13100 Westlinks Terrace, Fort Myers, Florida, 33913

Our Approach:HomeWell Care Services is committed to providing the highest quality of in-home care and peace of mind for families in Lee and Northern Collier Counties. We offer personalized care plans tailored to each individual's needs.Our Services:We offer a range of services to meet your needs, including companion care, personal care, specialty care, and more. Our signature programs, such as GoHomeWell and SureStep, are designed to safeguard and strengthen your well-being for the long term.Types of Care:Companion Care: Providing companionship and a quality home life environment.Personal Care: Assisting with basic tasks of daily living to maintain independence.Specialty Care: Additional support for advanced health issues.Hospice Care Support: Providing comfort and care for those with terminal illnesses.Palliative Care Support: Enhancing quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses.Fall Prevention: Implementing strategies to reduce the risk of falls.Low Vision: Supporting individuals with vision impairments.Respite Care: Providing temporary relief for primary caregivers.Alzheimers & Dementia Care: Specialized care for those with memory loss.Chronic Conditions Care: Managing care for individuals with ongoing health issues.Transportation: Assisting with transportation to appointments and errands.Transitional Care: Supporting individuals transitioning from hospital to home.Couples Care: Providing care for couples who wish to remain together.Elderly Support: Addressing the unique needs of elderly individuals.Adults under 65: Providing care for adults under 65 with specific needs.Facility Support: Supporting care facilities with staffing and care management.Frequency of Care:Hourly: Care provided on an hourly basis as needed.24-Hour: Around-the-clock care for those who require constant support.Live-in: Caregivers live with clients to provide continuous care.HomeWell Cares:Our commitment to compassionate care extends beyond our services. We actively engage with our community through our Front Porch Blog, providing valuable resources and information.Meet the Team:Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you every step of the way. From our expert Care Managers to our compassionate caregivers, we are committed to your well-being.Jobs:Interested in joining our team? Explore career opportunities with HomeWell Care Services and make a difference in the lives of others.Partnerships:We collaborate with local organizations and healthcare providers to ensure our clients receive comprehensive care and support.Resources:Access helpful resources, including guides on how to talk to your aging loved one about home care and determining if home care is right for your family.Contact Us:For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 239-666-2339.