As we grow older, our homes may need to undergo some modifications to ensure our safety and comfort. Aging in place has become a popular choice for many seniors who want to stay in their homes for as long as possible. However, making the decision to age in place is nothing to take lightly. It requires careful consideration of the modifications needed to allow for safety during your golden years.
In this blog post, we will explore five areas of your home that may require modifications – entryways, bathrooms, kitchens, general living spaces, and contractor requirements. The Board Store in La Crosse Wisconsin will share their expertise on modifying a wet space and reviewing all options for bathing, showering, and safety concerns during our Senior Care Summit 2024.
Aging in place is a choice that many seniors make to spend their golden years in the comfort of their own homes. However, as we age, our needs change and our homes may no longer be suitable for us. It’s important to consider modifications to ensure safety and comfort during this time.
- Entryways:
The entryway is one of the first areas that require attention when considering aging in place modifications. Steps leading up to the front door can be difficult to navigate with mobility issues or a walker or wheelchair. Consider installing ramps or railings if stairs are too difficult. Also, make sure there is adequate lighting around the entranceway and driveway.
This includes both front and back doors, as well as any other entrances such as garage doors or sliding glass doors. One of the most common modifications is adding wheelchair ramps or stairlifts if there are stairs leading up to your house. Other modifications may include widening doorways or installing grab bars near entrances.
Another consideration is entryways into the bathroom, bedroom or other living areas that may need to be wheelchair accessible. Can your wheelchair or use of a walker allow you to get into the bathroom?
- Bathrooms:
Bathrooms are notorious for being hazardous areas for seniors due to their slippery surfaces and tight quarters. Modifications can include installing grab bars near toilets and showers/tubs, raised toilet seats, non-slip flooring or mats, shower benches or chairs if standing becomes difficult. Another useful item in the bathroom is a hand-held shower head. Can someone in a wheelchair access the sink? These are all things to consider when aging in place is the goal.
You may also want to replace traditional bathtubs with walk-in tubs or roll-in showers that have low thresholds for easy access. Non-slip flooring is also key in preventing falls. Anna, interior designer from The Board Store, goes into depth on the pros and cons of a walk-in tub vs. a shower. She will be speaking at our Senior Care Summit 2024 and we encourage you to participate for this information as well as 31 other aging adult resource topics.
Wet spaces, such as bathrooms, require additional modifications if aging in place is the goal. Anna interior designer from The Board Store has several suggestions and a few tips to consider when modifying a bathroom.
- Kitchens:
Kitchens may need slight adjustments such as lowering countertops for easier access while seated or adding pull-out shelves so items are more easily reachable without having to bend down low or strain yourself.
Kitchens can pose a challenge for seniors due to high cabinets and hard-to-reach areas. Lowering countertops, sink basins, and appliances can make meal preparation easier and more comfortable for those with limited mobility.
Installing a wall oven or cooktop can also help prevent accidents compared to traditional stovetops.
- General Living Space
The general living space of your home may need some minor adjustments as well. This could include replacing carpet with non-slip flooring, making sure furniture is easy to navigate around, and rearranging items to clear walkways. Smart technology such as voice-activated devices and motion sensor lights can make it easier for seniors to control their environment and stay safe.
The entryway is the first area that needs attention when modifying your home for aging in place. Installing handrails along stairs or steps leading to the front door can help seniors maintain balance while entering or exiting the home. A ramp may be necessary if there are multiple steps or if mobility issues arise.
Creating an open floor plan with wide hallways and doorways allows for easy movement throughout the home with walkers or wheelchairs if needed. Removing clutter from walkways reduces tripping hazards and improves overall safety.
- Hiring Contractors
When hiring a contractor for these modifications, it’s important to do your research and ask for references. Make sure they have experience working with seniors and understand the unique needs associated with aging in place.
When hiring a contractor for modifications, it’s important to choose someone who specializes in aging-in-place renovations. Ask for references and certifications to ensure the contractor is qualified for the job. The Board Store in La Crosse, Wisconsin offers an excellent checklist we will share at the Senior Care Summit 2024 on what to look for when hiring a contractor.
Conclusion:
Remember, aging in place can be a wonderful option and is all about maintaining independence while staying safe and comfortable. However, it requires careful consideration of the necessary modifications for safety and comfort. Modifications will vary depending on individual needs but can include adding grab bars, lowering countertops, installing ramps or railings, using non-slip flooring and mats, and rearranging furniture.
We want to make sure you take in all of these considerations to help you make the best decision for you as you choose to age in place vs. another form of senior living. As nurse advocates this is certainly something we can help you with when looking at making the decision to age in place. We can provide education, go over the pros and cons and make sure we address all the things necessary and have all the facts before you move forward with your decision.
When considering hiring a contractor for these modifications, make sure they have experience working with aging adults and understand the specific needs that come with it. The Board Store in La Crosse Wisconsin is a great resource for seniors looking for guidance on wet spaces modification as well as other home adjustments. Don’t forget to grab our checklist for hiring a contractor during our Senior Care Summit 2024.
With these modifications, seniors can make their homes fit their changing needs without sacrificing the familiarity of their own home while continuing to age gracefully.
Thanks for stopping by and spending a few minutes with us here today. We hope you find this information both valuable and action orientated. We hope to see you at the Senior Care Summit 2024 where we have all the resources ready to share with you as well as several health care topics provided with education by doctors, pharmacists, nurse practitioners and more! Come and join us and you will not be disappointed!
We will see you back here soon for another blog post to assist aging adults and their families live out their golden years by getting the best healthcare possible and meeting their healthcare goals.
Take care,
Pam and Linda
Your Nurse Advocates
“Compassionate Care for Aging Adults, Peace of Mind for the Adult Children.”
Resources
Your Nurse Advocate Consulting Free Resources
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place/aging-place-growing-older-home
