How to implement lean principles in homes with the elderly

Standardize

• 1

  Install the same easy-to-use door handles on all doors in the home, even those used infrequently. These door handles should not require a strong grip to open. Lever-type door handles are a recommended part of Universal Design architecture, which provides guidelines on designing buildings so that they provide the same access to the physically impaired as they do the general population.

• 2

  Provide the same emergency call buttons and other assistance devices throughout the home. This standardization makes it easier for someone to learn how to use these devices properly and simplifies their maintenance. Typically, emergency call-button-bracelets send a signal to a wireless base station; those emergency calls are routed to 911 and do not require an additional service fee. Call buttons can also be installed on mobile base stations near beds or in the bathroom.

• 3

  Minimize the number of specialty appliances used in the home. For example, reduce the number of kitchen gadgets or rarely used beauty items. Get rid of unused electric woks and griddles. Eliminate specialty coffee makers if a simple one will do. This will free up space while reducing the chance that the device will be used incorrectly.

Simplify

• 4

  Install safety alarms with different sounds so that it is clear which alarm is going off, even if someone in the home is hearing impaired. Fire alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and burglar alarms should each have a distinct sound. Test these alarms frequently with the person present so that they can associate each alarm with the corresponding emergency.

• 5

  Place multiple pairs of prescription eye-glasses and/or hearing aids through out the home. Locate each of these items where the person frequently removes them, such as near their bathroom sink or bedroom table. This ensures that misplaced glasses or hearing aids will not leave them unable to see or hear.

• 6

  Purchase large button phones and remote control devices for every day items like televisions. This will simplify their use for those with limited vision and hand-eye coordination.

Eliminate unnecessary motion

• 7

  Widen all doorways to commonly used rooms so that walkers or wheelchairs can pass through them. This may require carpenters to cut new door frames and install new framing to ensure that the doors provide entry to commonly used rooms like the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom. If possible, avoid requiring someone to take an indirect path because an intermediate doorway is too small to use.

• 8

  Locate commonly needed items like tissue and reading glasses close to where an older person frequently sits or rests.

• 9

  Place small trash cans near items frequently thrown away like tissue or sore throat drops. This eliminates unnecessary searching for proper waste disposal locations and helps ensure these items do not accumulate.