Create a Home that Allows You to Age in Place

As you get older, it is normal to worry about what the future may hold. While many people spend time wondering if they are saving enough money, there are other things to consider. The idea of aging in your own home is appealing to many people. It is a place that you are familiar with, and it is where your community is. Making some modifications to your home before they are necessary ensures you can stay there as you age.

Consider Any Stairs

Stairs can become a problem at a surprisingly young age. Even if you can navigate the stairs, soreness and arthritis in the lower body can make it painful. You may find yourself avoiding going up or down the stairs because of the discomfort. In addition to pain, individuals with heart or respiratory issues often find stairs particularly challenging. Some homes are designed so all the living can be consolidated on the ground floor.

If that is possible in your situation, it may make sense to make those changes before a crisis occurs. Trips and falls are one of the leading reasons older adults lose their independence, so it is important to minimize those risks. Another option, particularly if you want to continue to use all floors of your home, is to add a home elevator. Adding a home elevator is not as uncommon as you may think, and can greatly improve mobility and independence. The home elevator changing the world allows you to access any floor of your home and makes quick work of transporting groceries, laundry, and other household items.

Minimize the Risk of Falls

As trips are one of the greatest hazards for older adults, fortunately, there is much you can do to reduce the risk of falls in the home. Get rid of any rugs that can easily bunch up under a dragging toe. Any rugs that you want to stay should have a non-slip mat attached to the underside. Grab bars are inexpensive and easy to install. Add them beside the shower and toilet. Non-slip bath mats both inside and outside the shower are important. While you are working in the bathroom, consider adding a shower chair. This makes bathing much easier for those with balance issues.

Walk through the entire house, trying to look at it through a stranger's eyes. Lamp cords, coffee tables with sharp edges, narrow pathways between furniture which makes it easy to trip, and any other obstacles need to be addressed. In the kitchen, ensure that groceries and regularly used items are in accessible lower cabinets. Use items such as a grabber that allows for extended reach and jar openers that help with a weakened grip to make everyday life easier.

Lighting is Important

Installing motion-activated lighting is a wonderful addition for anyone planning to age in their home. Motion-activated lighting ensures that you will never need to walk into or out of a dark room. Be sure you have enough lighting as well. Shadows and low light can make certain tasks difficult and cause you to misjudge your steps. Make sure you have plenty of task and general lighting, and use the proper wattage light bulbs for each.