If you have an elderly parent or other loved one, you might know that some changes are going to have to be made to his or her home as time goes on. For example, you may want to ensure that the kitchen is as accessible as possible for your loved one. Luckily, following these tips can help.

1. Put Items on Lower Shelves

If your loved one has trouble reaching up above his or her head, or if he or she is confined to a wheelchair or uses a walker or other mobility aid, then it might be time to move dishes, groceries, and other kitchen items to lower shelves. If necessary, consider installing a small shelving unit that sits on the floor so that your loved one does not have to try to reach into the cabinets.

2. Consider Making Changes to the Kitchen Table

If a kitchen table takes up a good part of the kitchen, it might be in the way of your loved one getting around, particularly if he or she uses a wheelchair or walker. You may want to put in a smaller table that will not take up as much space. Additionally, you may want to rethink tables that are taller and that have bar-height chairs or stools, which might be harder for your loved one to get in and out of. If the person uses a wheelchair, you'll want to ensure that the table is at the right height for him or her to sit at the table, and you may want to remove a chair to make things easier.

3. Consider a Side-by-Side Refrigerator

One good option is to consider a side-by-side refrigerator. Then, items can be kept on lower shelves of both the freezer and refrigerator sides to make access easier.

4. Install a Faucet with a Motion Sensor

If the person has trouble reaching the sink faucet, a faucet that is activated with a motion sensor can be a good choice. Additionally, if your loved one suffers from dementia, this can help ensure that he or she does not leave the sink faucet on.

It is probably important to you to make sure that your loved one feels at home and at ease in his or her kitchen, and you probably want to make meal preparation as easy as possible. Luckily, if you follow these four tips, you can help. Additionally, you may want to consider hiring an in-home health care professional like Neighbors Home Care Services who can help with preparing meals, cleaning up the kitchen and more.