How Assisted Living Communities Modify Kitchen Cabinets and Countertops to Ensure Safe Cooking

Cooking is still one of those daily rituals that many people do. Whether it’s creating their favorite family recipes passed down from one generation to another or satisfying a craving, you can spend time in the kitchen while maintaining your independence in an assisted living community. However, physical needs can change as you get older, and the design of a traditional kitchen might pose safety concerns that you never knew were possible.

Assisted living communities go the extra mile to make kitchen modifications to cabinets and countertops. As a result, cooking is much safer, and you can continue to make delicious dishes without worry.

An Accessibility-First Designa

Accessibility should always be prioritized when it comes to assisted living kitchen designs. What might be a suitable setup for younger adults might not apply to you due to possible limitations of your strength and mobility. For example, countertops and cabinets may need to be lowered to prevent strain, or use step stools, which may increase the risk of falls. You should be able to easily reach for items such as plates, cookware, and even the much-needed ingredients such as salt, pepper, or other spices.

With these design elements in place, it will make accessibility a lot easier. In assisted living, you can continue to spend time in the kitchen to your liking even if you need assistance with other needs. Just because you live in such a setting doesn’t mean you lose control of your everyday lives.

Installation of User-Friendly Cabinet Hardware

Traditional cabinet knobs may seem like they serve a purpose. However, they can be a challenge if you deal with reduced strength of their grip or even arthritis. For this reason, numerous assisted living spaces will typically install handles on cabinets that have “D-shaped pulls or lever-style handles”. These can also include soft-close mechanisms, which can help reduce accidental slamming situations that may lead to startling or even cause injuries. 

At the end of the day, cabinets in assisted living are designed with your safety in mind. As a result, there’s less strain, less worry about injuries, and more peace of mind knowing that a senior can make their way around the kitchen. These modifications are small, but they can make a huge difference in making sure you feel empowered and more independent. Alternatively, the community dining room can also be a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal when you don’t feel like cooking for a day.

Non-Slip Countertops For Additional Safety

Countertops in kitchens could have their own safety hazards, and you may not know it. In assisted living communities, countertops come with a matte finish with the intent to reduce glare that may cause disorientation, which is common with vision issues. On top of that, the non-slip properties can be useful when you use tools such as a cutting board or plates, so they stay in place instead of slipping. 

In addition, rounded edges can also help reduce the risk of injury from falls or accidental bumps. Finally, durability is also considered to ensure that a countertop doesn’t get damaged by stains, scratches, or even heat. Safe, low-maintenance countertops are excellent for you if you want peace of mind knowing you are working in a safe kitchen while also worrying less about the need for maintenance.

Storage Solutions That Prevent Bending and Reaching

Reaching for a high cabinet or bending low for a pot or pan can lead to a dangerous situation. Assisted living spaces have kitchens where storage spaces are thoughtfully placed and adjusted to accommodate a resident’s mobility levels. These can include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Pull-down shelving systems that can be installed in upper cabinets

• Roll-out trays and drawers in base cabinets

• Lazy Susans for corner cabinets to prevent strain and reach

• Open shelving for items that are frequently used

Cooking in assisted living is designed to be simple, safe, and overall fulfilling for you. Especially when you want to keep performing this daily ritual and make the most of their independence.

Love Spending Time in the Kitchen, But Want A Community That Ensures Safety? Check Out Aberdeen Heights Today!

Assisted living spaces such as those at Aberdeen Heights come with thoughtfully designed kitchens. Safety, security, and a sense of independence are what we aim for when it comes to our senior residents. If you want to cook up a storm for visiting family or have a delicious dinner all to yourself, you deserve to get it done in a kitchen that is safe to use, easy to get around, and thoughtfully designed with you in mind. For more information on how we can assist you, contact Aberdeen Heights today.