According to a recent survey, 90% of seniors prefer to remain in their homes as they age. This concept, known as “aging in place,” has skyrocketed in popularity recently as people attempt to maintain independence and comfort during their golden years. After all, home is where the heart is, and the idea of leaving behind a lifetime of memories and cherished belongings is simply unfathomable for many.
While some might assume that aging in place is a difficult or costly endeavor, there are many simple and affordable upgrades that can make a significant difference. From updating safety measures to improving accessibility, these modifications can convert a house into a comfortable and supportive environment for years to come. It’s an investment in your future well-being and peace of mind, allowing you to age gracefully and on your own terms.
We have compiled 17 perfectly reasonable home upgrades that would make aging in place a more comfortable reality. These modifications address various aspects of daily living, from mobility and safety to comfort and convenience. By incorporating these changes, you can create a home that supports your changing needs and allows you to age well in the comfort of your own space.
1. Install Lever-Style Door Handles
Traditional round doorknobs can be difficult to grip for those with arthritis or limited hand strength, making everyday tasks like opening doors a frustrating challenge. Lever-style handles are easier to operate and require less force, making them a practical and stylish upgrade for any home. The ergonomic design allows for a comfortable grip, reducing strain on joints and muscles.
These handles come in a variety of designs and finishes, allowing you to choose options that complement your existing décor and add a touch of modern elegance to your home. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a great starting point for your aging-in-place modifications.
2. Widen Doorways
Standard doorways can pose a significant obstacle for individuals using wheelchairs or walking aids, limiting their ability to move freely throughout the house. Widening doorways to at least 32 inches can significantly improve accessibility and make it easier to navigate through the home with mobility aids.
This modification may require professional assistance, but it’s a worthwhile investment for those with mobility issues or those planning for the future. It can make a world of difference in terms of independence and freedom of movement within the home, allowing you to access all areas of your house without limitations.
3. Install Grab Bars in Bathrooms
Bathrooms are high-risk areas for falls, especially for older adults who may be more susceptible to balance issues or decreased mobility. Installing grab bars near toilets, showers, and bathtubs can provide much-needed support and stability, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. These sturdy bars offer a secure handhold for getting in and out of the shower or navigating slippery surfaces.
Grab bars come in various styles and sizes, and can be strategically placed for maximum support based on individual needs and preferences. Choose options that are not only sturdy and easy to grip but also aesthetically pleasing to blend seamlessly with your bathroom décor.
4. Opt for a Walk-In Shower
Traditional bathtubs with high sides can be difficult to step over, posing a fall risk for those with limited mobility. Walk-in showers with a low or no threshold provide a safer and more accessible bathing option, eliminating the need to step over a barrier. This modification can significantly reduce the risk of falls and injuries in the bathroom.
Consider adding a built-in seat or bench for added comfort and support, allowing you to sit while showering if needed. Non-slip flooring and handheld showerheads are also helpful additions for a safer and more enjoyable shower experience.
5. Improve Lighting
Good lighting is essential for safety and can also enhance the ambiance of your home. As we age, our eyesight may deteriorate, making it more difficult to see in low-light conditions. Adequate lighting can help prevent accidents, improve visibility, and make your home feel more welcoming and comfortable.
Install brighter light fixtures in key areas like hallways, stairs, and bathrooms, where falls are more likely to occur. Consider adding task lighting in areas where you need focused illumination, such as the kitchen counter or reading nook. Motion-sensor lights can also be a helpful addition, automatically illuminating pathways and reducing the need to fumble for switches in the dark.
6. Install Non-Slip Flooring
Slippery floors can be a major hazard, especially for older adults who may be more prone to falls. Opting for non-slip flooring options like textured tiles, cork, or rubber can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. These materials provide better traction, reducing the likelihood of slips and falls, even when the floor is wet.
Non-slip flooring not only enhances safety but can also provide comfort and warmth underfoot. Choose materials that are durable, easy to clean, and aesthetically pleasing to complement your home’s décor. Consider adding non-slip mats or rugs in areas prone to moisture, such as the bathroom or kitchen.
7. Lower Kitchen Counters
Standard kitchen counters can be too high for individuals with limited mobility or those who use wheelchairs, making meal preparation challenging and potentially unsafe. Lowering the counters to a more accessible height can make cooking and other kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Consider installing adjustable height counters that can be raised or lowered to accommodate different needs and abilities. Pull-out shelves can also be a helpful addition, bringing items within easy reach and eliminating the need to bend or reach.
8. Replace Stair Treads
Worn or slippery stair treads can be a major tripping hazard, leading to falls and injuries. Replacing them with non-slip treads or adding a contrasting color to the edge of each step can improve safety and visibility, making it easier to navigate the stairs confidently.
Consider adding a sturdy handrail on both sides of the staircase for additional support, especially if the stairs are steep or narrow. Proper lighting is also crucial for safe navigation on stairs, so ensure the area is well-lit with bright and glare-free light fixtures.
9. Raise Electrical Outlets and Light Switches
Electrical outlets and light switches that are positioned too low can be difficult to reach for those with limited mobility, requiring excessive bending or reaching. Raising them to a more accessible height, ideally around 15 to 48 inches from the floor, can make everyday tasks like plugging in appliances or turning on lights easier and more convenient.
This relatively simple and inexpensive modification can significantly improve the functionality and accessibility of your home. Additionally, consider installing rocker-style light switches, which are easier to operate than traditional toggle switches.
10. Install a Ramp or Stair Lift
If your home has stairs, they can become a significant obstacle for individuals with mobility issues. Installing a ramp or stair lift can provide a safe and convenient way to navigate between floors, ensuring that you can access all areas of your home without difficulty. Ramps can be installed outside the home for easy entry, while stair lifts offer a motorized solution for indoor stairs.
Both ramps and stair lifts come in various designs and configurations to suit different needs and budgets. Consult with a professional to determine the best option for your home and individual requirements.
11. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat can be a valuable addition to your home. It allows you to easily control the temperature and create a comfortable living environment. Many smart thermostats can be programmed to adjust the temperature automatically based on your preferences and schedule, ensuring optimal comfort throughout the day and night without any effort on your part.
Some smart thermostats also offer features like remote access, allowing you to control the temperature from your smartphone or tablet. This can be particularly helpful for those with mobility issues, as it eliminates the need to get up and adjust the thermostat manually.
12. Install a Home Security System
A home security system can provide peace of mind and enhance safety, especially for older adults who may be more vulnerable to intruders. Modern security systems offer a range of features, from motion sensors and alarms to video surveillance and remote monitoring.
By installing a home security system, you can deter burglars, monitor your home remotely, and receive alerts in case of any suspicious activity. It’s a worthwhile investment in your safety and security.
13. Create a Main-Floor Bedroom and Bathroom
If your home has multiple floors, consider creating a main-floor bedroom and bathroom. This eliminates the need to navigate stairs, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. It also ensures that all essential living spaces are easily accessible on one level.
This modification may require some remodeling, but it can significantly improve your quality of life and make aging in place a more comfortable and sustainable option.
14. Enhance Outdoor Accessibility
Don’t forget about the outdoor spaces of your home! Make sure your yard, patio, or porch is accessible and safe. This can include installing ramps and handrails, widening pathways, and adding non-slip surfaces.
Creating a safe and accessible outdoor space allows you to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, socialize with friends and family, and engage in outdoor activities, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
15. Install a Smart Lighting System
A smart lighting system allows you to control your lights remotely using a smartphone or voice commands. You can program lights to turn on and off at specific times, create different lighting scenes for various activities, and even integrate your lights with other smart home devices for added convenience.
This can be particularly helpful for those with mobility issues, as it eliminates the need to get up and manually adjust the lights.
16. Invest in a Medical Alert System
A medical alert system can provide a lifeline in case of an emergency, such as a fall or sudden illness. These systems typically involve a wearable device with a button that can be pressed to call for help.
Knowing that help is just a button press away can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones, ensuring that you can get the assistance you need in a timely manner.
17. Rearrange Furniture
Rearranging furniture can improve the flow of traffic in your home and make it easier to navigate. Remove any clutter or obstacles that could trip you up, and create wider pathways for easier movement.
This is a simple and inexpensive way to improve the functionality and accessibility of your home. Consider consulting with an occupational therapist or interior designer for expert advice on how to optimize your home’s layout.
20 Features Owners Surprisingly Loathe After Moving to a New Home
Buying a home is a massive milestone and a source of pride for many. We dream of perfectly manicured lawns, spacious kitchens, and cozy living rooms (aka the American Dream with a white picket fence). But the reality of everyday life can reveal unexpected annoyances lurking beneath the surface charm of a new abode that we didn’t realize were there in all our excitement.
20 Features Owners Surprisingly Loathe After Moving to a New Home
20 Reasons Owning a Home is Overrated
Forget the picket fence and rose bushes. The “American Dream” of homeownership isn’t so dreamy when you dig deeper. Sure, there is a certain pride in owning your own place, but what if it’s actually holding you back?
The reality of owning a home can be very different from the overrated dreams we make up in our heads- planted in our heads as kids, young adults, and beyond.
20 Reasons Owning a Home is Overrated
15 Common Purchases Home Buyers Instantly Regret
Have you ever felt regret right after purchasing a new item for your home, realizing it doesn’t serve a practical purpose? Or maybe it takes a while to realize that the purchase was not a good one, and after the initial high of buying something, it wears off.
Buying a home is an exciting milestone for everyone. In the excitement, it’s easy to overspend and think we need things we don’t.
15 Common Purchases Home Buyers Instantly Regret
With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
