As our loved ones age, it becomes more important to ensure their home is safe, comfortable and accessible. Renovations that allow older adults to age in place can have a big impact on their quality of living, and help them live independently longer. Consider these aging-in-place renovations for your family. They are tailored to the needs of older adults and enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your home.
Accessible Entryway Modifications
It is important to make the entryway easy to access. Consider widening the doorways in order to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. For homes that have steps leading up to the main door, installing a stairlift or ramp can be an important addition.
For safety, it is important to have handrails on each side of the staircase and non-slip floors. Ensure that the entrance and outside lighting is sufficient to aid visibility at night or during bad weather.
Bathroom Renovations: Prioritising Safety and Comfort
The bathroom is one of the areas that should be prioritised for renovations to age in place. Safety and accessibility are key. Install custom-made glass shower doors. They are not only more aesthetically pleasing, but they also allow for a more accessible entrance compared to shower curtains. These doors can accommodate larger openings, and offer a barrier-free entrance.
Grab bars should be installed around the toilet, in the shower and bath areas to help prevent falls. For those who have mobility issues, walk-in tubs or roll-in showers can be excellent choices. A raised toilet seat and non-slip floor can help create a safer bathroom.
Kitchen Upgrades: Enhancing Accessibility and Safety
Kitchens are another area where safety and accessibility improvements can be made. Hiring a cabinet designer to create cabinets that are easily accessible for older adults can be a great idea. Kitchens can be made more user-friendly and functional with features such as pull-out shelves, lower counters, and storage solutions that are easy to reach.
For ease of use and upkeep, countertop installation is recommended. Quartz or granite are both durable and easy-to-clean materials. Install countertops at a height that is comfortable for anyone who uses a wheelchair.
Creating Safer Living Spaces
It is important to create a safe and comfortable living space for those who are aging at home. Replace traditional flooring with a non-slip option to avoid falls. A flooring contractor will help you select the right materials for your home, including vinyl and low-pile, durable, safe carpeting.
To reduce the risk for falls, it is important to have adequate lighting in every living area. Install brighter bulbs and additional light fixtures. Also, ensure that there is enough natural light. You can use lever-style handles instead of traditional knobs for people with limited hand strength or arthritis.
Bedroom Enhancements: Focusing on Comfort and Ease of Access
Bedrooms should be designed to provide comfort and ease of access. Install adjustable beds to make getting in and out easier. Make sure there is enough space around the bed to accommodate mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers.
Closets can be redesigned to make them more accessible. It is possible to make clothing and personal items more accessible for older adults by using lower hanging rods, easy-to-reach shelves and pull-out shelves. A closet designer can create a system that fits these needs.
Staircase Safety: Reducing Fall Hazards
Staircases are a major risk factor for falling. Installing a staircase lift can be a convenient and safe way for older adults to navigate between floors. An installer of stairlifts can assess your home and determine the best solution for you based on its layout and the needs of those who live there.
The steps should have non-slip treads and handrails on both sides. It is important to have adequate lighting at the top of the staircase and the bottom landing.
Home Repairs and Maintenance: Ensuring Safety and Functionality
For a home to be safe and functional, it is important to perform regular home maintenance. Repairs of home appliances must be done promptly in order to keep all appliances working properly and safely. Checking and repairing appliances such as stoves, ovens and refrigerators is essential.
Window installation is also a good option to increase energy efficiency and security. Replace old windows with newer, easier-to-use ones to improve comfort and save energy.
Electrical System Upgrades: Boosting Safety
It is important to ensure that the electrical system in an older home is up-to-date and safe. Hire local electrical services to upgrade electrical panels, install additional outlets, or ensure that all wiring is secure. To prevent electric shocks, ground fault circuit interrupter outlets (GFCIs) should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and any other area where there is water.
Outdoor Improvements: Ensuring Accessibility and Safety
It is important that the outdoor spaces of your home are also safe and accessible. Add ramps, railings and walkways to help older adults navigate the outside of their home. A non-slip surface and sufficient lighting are also important for preventing accidents.
Smart Home Technology: Improving Independence and Security
Smart home technology can enhance safety and convenience for older adults who wish to age in place. Smart doorbells, automated lights, and voice-activated devices can make it easier for older adults to manage their homes. These technologies can increase security and independence.
Renovations to age in place are an investment for the comfort, safety and independence of those you love. You can make your home more age-friendly by focusing on areas like the living room, bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and entryway. These renovations will be done efficiently and correctly if you work with professionals like custom cabinet designers and flooring contractors. The goal is to make a home where you and your family can enjoy the golden years.