Aging is a natural process that every living thing experiences. In humans, it can be fraught with new limitations. Plenty of homeowners strongly prefer to stay in the homes they’ve lived in for decades instead of being made to move in with their children or even to a senior living home. Aging in place can be made easier and safer with a remodeling process that changes homes to make them more senior-friendly.
For seniors living on their own, a fall can be deadly. That is why it is important to remove loose rugs and low furniture that is easy to trip over. Ramp installation wherever possible eliminates the risk of missing a stair and falling down. Large door knobs and drawer pulls are helpful to people with arthritis or weak wrists, and makes them easier to use. These changes not only make houses safer, but they improve their occupants’ quality of life while they are aging in place.
Priorities include creating accessible entrances and exits, both to the home and individual rooms. Railings along stairs, no matter how few, will make a huge difference in safety. Grab bars in the bathroom and shower also provide an extra sense of security, and are vital for seniors with limited mobility. Installing sturdy toilets that stand taller can make sitting down and getting up easier and less risky. Tracked shelving makes items easier to access without pulling back muscles or bending over as far. Wider doorways for walker and mobility aid accomodation maintain ease of movement through a house for older people living alone or with a spouse.
These are just some of the changes that will make a home easy to live in well into old age. Companies that specialize in preparing homes for aging in place can recommend updates and replacements based on your needs. These changes allow seniors and their families to have peace of mind, knowing that that their homes have been renovated to reflect their new stage of life.