More homeowners are searching for ways to upgrade their homes to meet the demand for aging-in-place remodeling projects. According to a survey conducted by Modernize Home Services, a Foster City, CA-based online firm that connects homeowners with contractors and other home-services professionals, the demand for renovations that make it easier for the elderly to stay in their homes longer is on the rise. Renovations can help ease mobility and increase comfort for many elderly homeowners. Here are five ways you can renovate your home or a family member’s home to help keep them safe in their homes longer.
Bathroom Renovation
A bathroom is significant for slip and fall injuries among the elderly. To help with this issue, we suggest changes in the bathroom to include a walk-in shower, built-in shower seating, grab bars near the toilet and the tub areas. Also, consider installing non-slip flooring such as bamboo or cork, which can be more forgiving in a fall.
Home Automation
Upgrading your home with the latest technology is not only a nice perk, but it can be a game-changer for the elderly. Consider installing smart plugs with a centralized system such as Alexa or Google Assistant. These systems allow the homeowner to easily control lights, fans, tv, and much more by speaking to the system. Smart lights can be programmed to turn on and off at certain times of the day, or motion sensors turn on when the homeowner moves around the house. Also, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to keep the house comfortable in the harshest of conditions.
Lever Style Door Knobs
For homeowners with arthritis, installing lever-style doorknobs on their doors can help with the pain from twisting a regular round doorknob.
Wheel Chair Ramps
Even if no one in the home has a wheelchair, installing a ramp to help avoid climbing stairs is a good idea. A wheelchair ramp can also be helpful in the event of future medical needs.
Install a Chair Lift or Elevator
For homes with multiple levels installing a chair lift or an elevator is an excellent option to increase homeowners’ mobility and allow them to move freely from floor to floor with relative ease. Costs can vary depending on how many floors are in the home and the type of lift a homeowner requires.
Age-Friendly Kitchen
Upgrading a kitchen is an excellent way to make it easier for the elderly to remain in their homes. Changes such as lower counter heights, track lighting, a shallow sink, accessible storage, and installing updated cabinets that have pull-out drawers for heavy items such as mixers can make all the difference in the world.
There are many ways we can help people stay in their homes, living out their golden years, and these are just a few of them. To learn more ways to update and renovate your home, contact High Quality Contracting Inc for a quote today.
Some seniors may qualify for a limited number of home improvement grants based on their income and location. The Department of Health and Human Services’ ElderCare.gov website has more details.