As you age, it becomes essential to make certain home improvements to ensure safety, convenience, and accessibility. These 20 ideas are the perfect place to begin thinking about setting up your home for the future. Let’s begin!
Let There Be Light!
As we age, our eyesight isn’t what it used to be. Colors become harder to distinguish, and our vision may become clouded.
This can unfortunately lead to accidents around the house.
But don’t worry, there’s a simple solution – improve your lighting! By brightening up your hallways, staircases, and entryways, you can enhance visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
Ground Floor Living
Stairs can become a real challenge as we get older. If your home has multiple levels, it might be a good idea to convert a room on the ground floor into a bedroom.
This way, you can avoid those pesky steps altogether. It’s a significant change, but it’s best to make it while you’re still physically able.
Handle It with Ease
You might not think it’s a big deal, but swapping out traditional doorknobs for lever-style handles can make a world of difference, especially if you develop arthritis or have reduced hand strength.
With lever-style handles, you can use the full action of your arms instead of painfully twisting your wrist.
Ride the Stairlift
Some people might hesitate at the thought of installing a stairlift in their home, but these devices are more affordable and convenient than ever.
Plus, most accidents among older people happen around the stairs, making stairlifts a great investment for your safety.
Step into Safety with a Walk-In Shower
Who says getting older should slow you down? A walk-in shower is a safer alternative to stepping over a bathtub ledge onto a slippery floor. So why not make the switch and continue being the proactive go-getter you are?
Smart Home, Easy Living
In this digital age, aging has become less of a tribulation. Thanks to smart home technologies like voice-controlled lighting and temperature control, life can be much easier.
Once installed, these low-maintenance systems allow you to adjust your home to your preferences with just a single sentence. No more struggling to reach the thermostat!
Turn Down the Heat with Anti-Scald Devices
As we age, our hand-eye coordination can decline. While this might not affect your dreams of becoming an NBA champ, it could lead to accidental burns.
But don’t fret, installing anti-scald devices on your faucets and showers can regulate water temperature and prevent these injuries.
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Gardening can be a great hobby for older people, but you don’t want to overdo it. Opt for low-maintenance landscaping options that minimize the need for regular upkeep.
Consider native plants, automatic irrigation systems, and artificial turf to make your yard work a breeze.
Open Up with Wider Doorways
We might gain a few pounds as we age, but that’s not the only reason to consider widening your doorways. Homes aren’t typically designed with mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers in mind.
By widening your doorways, even by a few inches, you can make moving around your home much easier.
Secure Your Sanctuary
According to the Department of Justice, elderly people are more likely to be targeted by criminals due to factors like social isolation and predictable behavior patterns.
A comprehensive home security system with features like surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and emergency alerts can provide peace of mind and enhance your safety.
Ramp It Up
If stairs become too much of a challenge, consider installing ramps at entrances. This can make it easier to enter and exit your home, especially if you use a mobility aid.
Non-Slip Flooring
Slippery floors can be a hazard. Consider installing non-slip flooring or adding non-slip mats in areas like the bathroom and kitchen to prevent falls.
Pull-Out Shelves
Reaching high shelves can be difficult and dangerous. Pull-out shelves in your kitchen and closets can make it easier to access items without straining.
Raised Garden Beds
If you love gardening, raised garden beds can save you from having to bend over too much. They can be designed at a comfortable height that allows you to garden while standing or sitting.
Accessible Appliances
Consider replacing appliances with models that have easy-to-read controls and are at a comfortable height. For example, a wall oven can be easier to use than a traditional range oven.
Bathroom Grab Bars
Install grab bars in the bathroom near the toilet and shower. These can provide extra support when standing or moving.
Adjustable Bed
An adjustable bed can make it easier to get in and out of bed. It can also make it more comfortable to read or watch TV.
Touchless Faucets
Touchless faucets in the kitchen and bathroom can make washing hands and dishes easier, especially for those with arthritis or other conditions that affect hand strength.
Emergency Alert System
Consider installing an emergency alert system. With the push of a button, you can get help quickly in case of a fall or other emergency.
Clear the Clutter
Keep walkways clear and remove any potential tripping hazards. This includes securing loose rugs, tidying up cords, and arranging furniture to create clear paths.
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