To make it
functional
, redoing your entire kitchen will not be necessary.
To adapt to the loss of mobility, all you have to do is create a space, such as a table or a piece of work surface, at the right height.
Also review the storage of your cupboards.
Remove running boards and other stepladders.
Store utensils that are rarely used upstairs and leave what you need on a daily basis close at hand.
Functional kitchen: make everything accessible
Marie-Jo Kremer, occupational therapist, advises to
“place in an easily accessible drawer everything that is used in a day: two plates, two cutlery, two glasses…”
Take advantage of ergonomic storage such as revolving shelves.
If necessary, change your handles to easier-to-grip models or push-button ones.
Better: replace your cupboards with drawers with total extension, which give access to all the contents without having to contort themselves.
Read alsoScreening the first signs of frailty in seniors to preserve autonomy
You can equip them with electric assistance when opening (Blum motorization, for example).
AMR Concept manufactures motorized tilting shelves, which make the inside of a wall unit accessible effortlessly (I-move, €400 for the gas spring model).
For your safety, place a non-slip mat in front of the sink or spray an anti-slip product on the floor.
This treatment is effective for several years.
Also consider installing an automatic opening trash can.
A trolley on wheels will allow you to move hot dishes without taking any risks.
Prefer electric appliances rather than gas.
The cooktop knobs should be easy to reach and the markings clearly visible.
Cedeo offers, for example, a vitroceramic domino (2 cooking zones) fitted with a timer (Moderna MTCD029Z01, €501.80).
Also opt for a thermostatic mixer tap, with a temperature blocking stopper.
A website to guide you
There are many solutions to make life easier for the elderly.
The home-from-home online directory.
lassuranceretraite.fr lists more than 2,000. You can search by function (hearing, balance, etc.), by activity (cooking, communicating, getting around, etc.) or by room in the house.
Raising Appliances
The appliance must be at the right height.
Leave small everyday appliances (coffee maker, toaster, etc.) on the work surface.
To limit the risk of burns, it is recommended that the oven be within easy reach.
A model with telescopic rails will be even safer.
Read alsoAdaptation of housing to aging: the government wants unique aid
Many furniture, DIY and household appliance brands offer solutions for raising household appliances: columns for the oven or dishwasher, plinth with drawer for a porthole washing machine.
There is also a dishwasher (Electrolux ComfortLift) with a lower basket that can be raised.
Finally, make sure that your chairs are not too heavy, and that you are comfortably seated at the table when you take your meals (your elbows should not be too high).
