10 Home Modifications to Help You Age in Place
Aging in place refers to being able to continue living in your current housing arrangements, regardless of age, income, or ability level. It’s a popular choice for many elderly individuals, as they are able to remain in their own homes rather than in an aged-care facility.
However, in order to do this safely, it’s important that arrangements are made. This doesn’t just improve overall comfortability but reduces the risks of accidents such as slips and falls.
In this article, we will talk about ten different home modifications to help you age in place.
Sound interesting? Then let’s get started!
Louder Alarm Systems
When you’re in the comfort of your own home, it’s understandable that you may not always wear your hearing aid. Therefore, a good quality doorbell is a must so that you will always be able to hear when guests are visiting.
A new fire/smoke/carbon monoxide alarm system is also recommended as it adds an extra layer of protection. You can rest easy knowing that you’ll be alerted in the case of an emergency.
Medical Alerts
You may have already heard about wearable medical alerts that come in necklaces and bracelets. However, they can also be integrated into your home.
Buttons can be installed on the walls, and an entire security system can monitor for falls. Of course, choosing what is best for you depends on your requirements. But, they really can come in handy for those on their own for long periods of time.
Open Layout
Alongside installing specific home modifications, you also may need to think about changing the layout of your furniture altogether. For example, if it’s too cluttered or disorganized, you could find it challenging to move around comfortably.
Furniture should be placed against the walls, and walkways should be free from obstructions. Having a deep declutter can be highly beneficial here, especially as you’ll no longer have to worry about such extensive cleaning.
You can check out this decluttering checklist to help get started.
Ramps
For those that are struggling with balance issues or who may now use a wheelchair, ramps are certainly a significant but necessary investment. They ensure that you can get in and out of your house safely and a much more secure than stairs.
Just make sure that they are installed by a licensed professional. This way, the ramp won’t just be at the right height but will also be sturdy enough to withstand the weight of specific equipment.
Grab Bars
Indeed, one of the easiest and best modifications for those wanting to go through their retirement at home is grab bars. These can be installed almost anywhere, making it much easier to get out of the bath, shower, bed, and to stand up from the toilet.
Again, these are something that needs to be installed appropriately. While it is possible to do it yourself, you want to be sure that they can take a good amount of weight. Otherwise, it can lead to further accidents.
Improved Lighting
Much like our hearing, our sight can also be affected as we grow older, and it can become more challenging to see at night. If you don’t already have adequate lighting in your home, it’s wise to make a few adaptations.
Alongside installing brighter globes and lamps, motion-sensor lighting near your entry points can prevent accidents when you come home in the dark. You can even get small ones that light up so that you can find the bathroom more easily.
Lever Handles
Many older homes have inconvenient door and cupboard handles that are hard to grasp, especially for those who have arthritis. A simple switch that can make a big difference is to change them to a lever option.
There are many different styles to choose from so that your home will still look fantastic. Alternatively, you could look into purchasing an extension handle which is a more temporary solution.
Stairlifts
If you have a two-story home, another rather extensive modification that you could look into is stairlifts. These look like a seat on rails, which are used to move an individual up and down the stairs rather than having to walk.
Occasionally, they may not be the most practical solution, so consider your living arrangements carefully if you’re thinking of aging in place. For example, it could be better to move into somewhere with a one-story house plan than make the changes.
Non-Slip Flooring
We already mentioned how slips and falls are among the most significant risks for the elderly. So, it makes sense that flooring should be one of the first modifications you look into.
Rubber flooring, cork, vinyl, and carpets are currently the most popular options, but they come with different benefits. While some are easier to clean, others are better at cushioning in the case of an accident.
Don’t forget about the bathroom too. Anti-slip mats and stickers should be placed across the tiles, alongside any necessary equipment such as a shower bench, stool, or raised toilet seat.
Automated and Hands-Free Appliances
Lastly, it’s also great to look into a few different hands-free and automated appliances alongside everything we already mentioned. Things such as voice-activated assistants and smart sensors can provide the ultimate living experience.
However, it is essential to note that these systems can be tricky to use. Before you invest in something, you want to be sure you will benefit from it. Technology isn’t for everyone, and you may feel more comfortable with simple devices.
Final Words
And that’s it! These were ten home modifications to help you age in place. So, if you’re thinking of taking this route, it’s worth noting the above. While you might not need every single one, they can help ensure that you remain comfortable and safe.
If you’re struggling with knowing where to get started, reach out to your loved ones for support. They can help you through the process and will assist you in designing a beautiful and secure home.
