Home Improvements for Seniors

O.K., nobody likes to admit it, but we all age. It’s part of life. We can deny it all we like, but the truth is, time takes its toll on our ability to get around. We can’t bounce up those steps like we did in our younger days. We can’t grip or push or pull like we used to either. The problem is, many homes have features that don’t take these types of limitations into account.

Fortunately, there’s a new trend called, “aging in place.” Many seniors are now choosing to remain in their homes longer rather than move to retirement communities. This means homes occupied by older residents many times need updates to help offset the effects of aging.

There are a number of things you can do around your home to help accommodate any of your body’s restrictions. They’ll not only make it easier for your day-to-day living, they’ll also make your home safer. A recent AARP survey indicated seven out of ten mid-life and older Americans have made at least one modification to their homes to compensate for aging. Many of these improvements aren’t too costly. Here are a few to consider:

Floors and furniture

• If you have area/throw rugs, either use a good non-slip pad underneath them or tack them down with two-sided tape.
   
• Consider putting down carpet (that isn’t too thick/plush) if you have tile/linoleum. It reduces the possibility of slipping.
   
• Remove low-lying furniture that could cause tripping, such as baskets, plants, coffee tables, etc.
   
• Don’t use chairs with any type of rollers on their legs. If you have difficulty getting up, consider adding height to the chair/couch, such as with additional cushions or sturdy risers.

Bathroom

• Install grab bars around the shower, tub and toilet. They should hold at least 250 pounds. And before you make a commotion about your bathroom looking like a hospital facility, be aware that even those clunky grab bars now come in different colors and finishes to blend in nicely with bathroom décor.
   
• Elevate toilet seats so it’s easier to get up. Special seats that raise the height by a number of inches can be found at most home improvement stores.
   
• Put down non-skid mats in front of sinks, toilets and where you step out of the shower.
   
• Use a suctioned safety mat in the bottom of the shower/tub.
   
• If you have trouble getting up or down, a special bench in the bath/shower can help, as well as a moveable showerhead.

Kitchen

• Is everything within easy reach? You don’t want to be climbing stools or stepladders to reach things. You may have to rearrange those cabinets.
   
• Because the refrigerator is so prominent, post important information there. This could include emergency phone numbers, medication taken, doctors, allergies, etc.

Miscellaneous

• Used beveled thresholds to even out differences in floor heights from room to room.
   
• Arthritis can make turning on simple switches difficult. Replace standard flip switches with rocker switches (those you press rather than flip).
   
• Consider lighted switch plates and nightlights that run at floor level to help eliminate tripping.
   
• Replace doorknobs with lever handles to make opening doors easier. These don’t require gripping and turning. Think about replacing any knobs (kitchen/bathroom sink) with lever handles.
   
• Consider adding a ramp at entrances to your home (rather than steps) to make entering easier.
   
• Be sure all staircases have handrails on at least one side.
   
• Have adequate lighting around your home to prevent tripping over unseen objects.

Seniors spend billions of dollars each year on home improvements. Yes, it’s nice to have an updated, stylish look, but be sure you also keep in mind the functional aspects of your home as well. It’ll make your life that much easier!