A big, plastic or rubber knob on the base of the key for easy gripping %26amp; more leverage. Color coding will make sure they know exactly which key goes in what lock.What are good ideas to help elderly parents easily operate a front door lock?
The Victorians had a butler. But then this has to be fed and watererd regularly.
Seriously, have a lever handle fitted for ease of opening. This can be used in certain lock types to physically lock the door with an upward motion. Most will still need some form of key to open it unless you move onto proprietary access control systems with proximity readers, but then this adds significant cost and is also not really practical for a domestic situation.
get a buzzer !!!!!!
As a Locksmith I've done this before.
Use an Electric release on a standard yale type rim latch, and operate it with a wireless electronic ';key'; This is as big as standard keyfob, and only needs to be touched near the reader. New readers have a longer range, so essentially they do not even need to take it out of their bag.
An additional buzzer may be needed -to tell them the door is open, a chime or indicator light.
- ask for examples at Alarm installers or a good locksmith.
Should work out at less than 拢100 for all the units, plus fitting - less than 拢100 again.
This is worthwhile as you will not get lock-out problems.
If used with a night-latch mortice lock, there is a standard latch handle on the inside, but only a pull knob on the outside (plus keyhole override) - ideal for the elderly or infirm.
Lighting is important at the door. Oil the locks.
Ring your local Council offices. They deal with a section on that. Your parents may qualify for free assistance on having suitable handles and locks fitted.
I have come across this problem on numerous occasions with elderly people who live in apartment buildings and have had problems due to arthritis and other ailments. I have found that Hotel head keys are easier to grip and identify. Most lock manufacturers make a hotel type key and your local locksmith should be able to help you find some. Lever handle locksets are easier to use as they do not require as good a grip to operate just downward pressure to operate the latch. Not knowing if your parents live in a house or an apartment situation I can not give you to much more advise as site unseen I have no idea what you are up against. Your best bet for any type of access control would be too call several local locksmiths and alarm instalers and get some quotes from them.
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