So much of our day revolves around the preparation and enjoyment of food! 

In our home, we had folks coming to the dining table with various stages of mobility - and we didn't have a lot of space!

So one of the first things we did was change our dining table to one with ROUNDED CORNERS. This helped ensure that no one got a nasty bruise from bumping into a hard corner.

We thrifted our table, but here's a similar one available from Amazon.

Plus, transfers and getting up was hugely helped when we switched all of the dining room chairs to ones with ARMS. Everyone can be the Captain!

We bought fabric chairs something similar to this style, which was also comfy and looks pretty stylish!

Crumb catchers, FOOD APRONS, whatever you do, just don't call them bibs...

Ha, ha, but the reality was, my parents hated the part of aging that meant often their clothing got regularly stained or dirty from eating.

We discovered a local sewer who made them in terrific patterns, but nowadays they can be ordered in a variety of styles online.

​I like this stylish version on Amazon, but there are many in both masculine and feminine styles available.

In the Kitchen, we get used to where things have always been. But sometimes it's good to take a fresh eye to what might better reduce risk.

​The most commonly used items can be placed in EASY-TO-REACH locations - a good rule of thumb is to look at locations BETWEEN KNEE AND SHOULDER heights.

For instance, instead of bending every day to grab the cereal box from a cupboard, why not find a place for it on counter or an easy shelf? The same might go for things like tea and bread.

Ask yourself what gets used often enough to earn a place on the counter.

The natural extension of this is to place heavier items in lower cupboards and light things in higher cupboards.

To assist in reaching those higher items, consider investing in a sturdy STEP STOOL WITH RAILINGS. Here's one we like that combines good safely with the convenience of folding for storage when not in use.

We also became big fans of the GRABBER TOOL - it's terrific to help with both bending low and reaching high for lighter items. My Mom had one in every room, so here's a link to a handy two-pack - and they even fold up!

Lastly, a kitchen FIRE EXTINGUISHER is a must. Mount it on the wall and review how to use it. It could save homes and lives when the unexpected occurs. 

We like this lightweight fire extinguisher. At just 2.5 lbs, most people will have no problem using it when it is needed most.

​Stay tuned for next week, when we move on to the Bathroom!

It was lovely to attend last week's Community Well-Being Fair and connect with so many incredible community partners - our big thanks to the Community Sector Council NL for organizing!

While there, Jenn gave a short presentation on Aging Safely at Home - a summary of some tips and tricks her family has learned while living with three aging parents.

Over the next few weeks, we'll feature here a focus on different areas: Kitchen & Dining; In the Bathroom; and In the Bedroom.

But first, here's a look at some general things to think about inside a home that can reduce risk and help maximize smart, independent living - and most are quick and afforable!

Sunflower is here is assist seniors and their families with a variety of services - feel free to call us at 709-757-0059 or toll free to 1-833-752-5666 anytime; and our email is [email protected]. 

Cheers! 
Jenn & Yuliia