Are you planning to stay in your home as you grow older? If so, you might want to consider some home improvement ideas that can make your living space more comfortable, safe, and accessible. Here are 10 suggestions that can help you age in place with ease and style.
1. Install grab bars in the bathroom. Grab bars can provide extra support and stability when you use the shower, tub, or toilet. They can also prevent falls and injuries.
2. Replace doorknobs with lever handles. Lever handles are easier to operate than doorknobs, especially if you have arthritis or limited hand strength. They can also improve the accessibility of your home for visitors or caregivers.
3. Add more lighting. As you age, your vision may decline and you may need more light to see clearly. Adding more lighting can brighten up your home and reduce the risk of tripping or bumping into things. You can also install motion sensors or timers to turn on the lights automatically when you enter a room or at night.
4. Upgrade your flooring. Flooring can affect your comfort and safety at home. You may want to replace slippery tiles or carpets with non-slip vinyl or hardwood floors. You can also add area rugs or mats to cushion your feet and prevent falls.
5. Install a stair lift or elevator. If you have a multi-level home, climbing stairs can become difficult or dangerous as you age. You may want to install a stair lift or elevator to help you move between floors with ease and convenience.
6. Add a walk-in shower or tub. A walk-in shower or tub can make bathing easier and safer for seniors. You can choose a model that has a low threshold, a seat, a hand-held showerhead, and anti-slip surfaces.
7. Install a smart home system. A smart home system can allow you to control various aspects of your home with your voice or a smartphone app. You can adjust the temperature, lighting, security, entertainment, and more with just a few commands or taps.
8. Add more storage and organization. As you age, you may accumulate more belongings and need more space to store them. You can add more storage and organization to your home by installing shelves, cabinets, drawers, hooks, baskets, and bins. You can also label them for easy identification and access.
9. Create an outdoor living space. An outdoor living space can provide you with fresh air, natural light, and relaxation. You can create an outdoor living space by adding a patio, deck, porch, or balcony to your home. You can also furnish it with comfortable chairs, tables, plants, and decorations.
10. Hire a professional contractor. If you need help with any of these home improvement ideas, you may want to hire a professional contractor who has experience working with seniors and aging in place projects. A professional contractor can advise you on the best options for your home, budget, and needs.
These are just some of the home improvement ideas that can help you age in place with comfort and dignity. By making some changes to your home, you can enhance its functionality, safety, and beauty for years to come.
