Recovering from an injury — whether from fractures, surgeries, or a chronic condition — is physically and emotionally demanding. An optimal space is critical to how efficiently and comfortably you heal. When considering how to create a safe home environment after injury, you should strategically design it to support mobility, safety and well-being. By adapting your home to support your physical needs and ultimately supporting the mental effects, you can improve your recovery timeline and reduce the risk of complications or setbacks.

1. Prioritize Safety and Accessibility

Over 52 million people experience non-fatal injuries at home, which can be prevented with the proper adaptation. The first step is removing obstacles and hazards that could hinder your movement or lead to further harm:

• Clear pathways: Cluttered pathways increase the possibility of tripping. Remove cords, rugs, and floor ornaments that could cause a slip or fall. If you have crutches, wheelchairs or walkers, ensure the pathway is wide enough to navigate from one room to another easily.
• Handrails: Install handrails or grab bars in the bathroom, staircases, and near beds to help with mobility.
• Nonslip mats: Nonslip mats are specialized materials that grip your feet, preventing slips. It also absorbs water, minimizing the risk of a fall.
• Lighting: Poor lighting can reduce your ability to see potential hazards. Ensure you have enough to lower the risk of a fall.

2. Create a Rest and Recovery Room

Part of creating a safe home environment is creating a recovery space that is comfortable physically and mentally. An emotionally calm room helps your body relax by reducing the stress hormones it releases. 

• Get some sunshine: Choose a room that’s exposed to the sun. UV rays trigger the release of your body’s vitamin D — crucial for calcium absorption and stronger bones. 
• Keep essentials nearby: Keep your medication, water bottle, mobile phone, charger, tissues and massager within arm’s reach. Massages relieve the pain of muscle soreness by improving blood flow and oxygen delivery.
• Avoid repetitive strain injury: Repetitive strain can further damage your muscles, prolonging healing. So, if your hands are injured from typing, avoid the activity during recovery.
• Choose a comfort spot: Get adjustable pillows and a bed or recliner that supports proper body alignment to avoid further pain. If you’ll be spending a lot of time in the room, get wallpaper that promotes colors of healing and enthusiasm.
• Ensure you’re moving occasionally: While relaxation is essential, balance bed rest and escapism to prevent a mental decline and maintain independence.

3. Organize for Independence

Managing daily tasks — even in a limited way — helps rebuild confidence and reduces reliance on caregivers:

• Store items in easy-access areas: Store daily items in places that are easy to reach. These items should be around waist or shoulder height to avoid bending or stretching. 
• Utilize technology for support: Use assistive devices like reacher tools, long-handled sponges or voice-activated devices like Alexa to control smart devices like your playlist. 
• Place help tools in strategic locations: Place chairs or stools in rooms where you’ll spend extensive time.
• Adaptive equipment: Adaptive medical equipment can range from cognitive and sensory to mobility aids and can benefit injury recovery during long- or short-term periods.

4. Set up Easy Nutrition and Hydration Access

Nutrition-rich foods are essential for recovery — protein replenishes body tissue, vitamins boost the immune system, calories provide energy, and hydration helps the skin receive oxygen and heal. However, injury can make meal prep challenging, especially if you’ve hurt your hands. Nutritious foods in easy-to-access areas promote health without causing stress and anxiety about meal-prepping:

• Stock the fridge and pantry: Make sure your groceries are the same height as you and stock healthy, ready-to-eat meals and snacks.
• Prep helpful swaps: While you might be craving pastries or chocolate for comfort, this sugar slows wound recovery and increases inflammation, so get some treats like honey oatmeal and raspberries. Avoid eating too much fiber to be gentle on your tired digestive system, as well.
• Rolling cart: If you have hand injuries, use a rolling cart or tray to carry food and drinks to the room safely. 
• Water station: Ensure you have easy access to water day and night to refill your bottle.
• Food delivery: If preparing a meal is too challenging, create food delivery times and orders to meet your dietary requirements and cravings. Contact delivery businesses through their websites, phone lines, apps or third-party platforms.

Create a Safe Haven as Your Road to Recovery

A well-designed, safe home environment after injury promotes convenience and mental and physical healing. Creating an environment that uplifts your spirit by encouraging independence, healthy eating and rest leaves you feeling relaxed. Minimizing risks of getting hurt again lets you focus on what matters most — healing the fastest way possible. If you’re curious about how Myobuddy can assist in your recovery, talk to our team to learn more.