Safety & Comfort at Home: A Guide to Remodel for Seniors
As people age, they often want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. This is where aging in place remodeling comes in. Aging in place remodeling is the process of modifying a home to make it safer and more accessible for older adults. This can include things like installing grab bars in the bathroom, widening doorways, and adding ramps.
There are many benefits to aging in place remodeling. It can help seniors stay independent and live longer in their own homes. It can also reduce the risk of falls and other injuries. Additionally, aging in place remodeling can make it easier for caregivers to provide care for their loved ones.
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering aging in place remodeling for your home:
Assess your needs and the needs of your loved one. This will help you determine what modifications are necessary.
Talk to your doctor or other healthcare providers to get their recommendations.
Research different contractors and get quotes for the work.
Be prepared to make some changes to your lifestyle.
Here are some specific aging in place remodeling ideas:
Install grab bars in the bathroom. Grab bars can be installed in the shower, bathtub, and around the toilet. They can provide support and help prevent falls.
Widen doorways. Doorways should be at least 36 inches wide to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers.
Add ramps. Ramps can be used to access different levels of the home, such as the front door or the basement.
Install a walk-in shower. Walk-in showers have no curb, which makes them easier to enter and exit. They can also be equipped with grab bars and a shower seat.
Lower cabinets and countertops. Lower cabinets and countertops can make it easier for seniors to reach items.
Install non-slip flooring. Non-slip flooring can help prevent falls in areas where water is present, such as the bathroom and kitchen.
Improve lighting. Good lighting can help seniors see better and avoid falls.
Install smart home features. Smart home features can make it easier for seniors to control their home, such as lights, thermostats, and door locks.
In addition to the physical modifications listed above, there are also a number of other things you can do to make your home more senior-friendly:
Keep clutter to a minimum. Clutter can make it difficult for seniors to move around safely.
Make sure there are plenty of handrails. Handrails can be installed on stairs, hallways, and other areas where seniors may need support.
Remove throw rugs. Throw rugs can be a tripping hazard.
Keep floors clean and dry. Wet or slippery floors can lead to falls.
Ensure that there is adequate lighting. Good lighting can help seniors see better and avoid falls.
Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors can help save lives in the event of a fire or carbon monoxide leak.
Have a plan for emergencies. Make sure you have a plan for what to do in case of an emergency, such as a fire or fall.
Remember: You're not alone! This guide connects you with valuable resources, including:
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB): Provides educational resources and a directory of Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)
The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): Offers information on home modifications and occupational therapy services American Occupational Therapy Association
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Provides resources on healthy aging and fall prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
By following this guide and utilizing the resources available, you can create a safe, comfortable, and empowering environment that allows your loved one to thrive in their own home for years to come.
