Check Out This Article We Were Featured in- Home Modifications for Aging in Place: Making Your Home Safe and Accessible -by James Hall

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Aging in place requires thoughtful planning, as well as certain home modifications in order to ensure safety and comfort. Making a home more accessible can significantly enhance the quality of life for seniors, allowing them to maintain their independence. This article from HD Desian Company provides valuable advice on how to assess and implement the necessary changes, offering practical tips for creating a safe and supportive living environment.

Swap Out Door Knobs for Lever Handles

Traditional door knobs can be difficult to grip and turn, especially if you have arthritis or limited hand strength. Lever handles, on the other hand, are much easier to use. You can open a door by simply pushing down on the handle, making it accessible for everyone, including those with mobility aids. Lever handles also come in various styles and finishes, allowing you to choose one that matches your home decor while enhancing functionality.

Enlisting the Help of a Specialist

Hiring a CAPS (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist) designer ensures that your home will be tailored to meet your current and future needs, allowing you to comfortably age in place. These professionals are trained to create spaces that accommodate mobility, safety, and accessibility, reducing the likelihood of needing to move into a senior living community prematurely. Even if you don't require these adaptations right away, planning ahead with a CAPS-certified designer helps preserve your independence and extends the time you can live in a home you love.

Modifications to Consider

Incorporating features like ramps, chair lifts for stairs, and curhless showers can significantly improve senior living by enhancing accessibility and safety within the home. Even small material changes can make a big difference in how elderly individuals function in their space. For example, switching from dark to lighter, textured flooring can enhance visibility and reduce the risk of falls. Darker surfaces are often more challenging for seniors to navigate, while lighter floors and countertops make it easier for them to see objects, contributing to a safer and more comfortable living environment.

Embrace Voice-Activated Technology

Voice-activated technology can significantly enhance your home's accessibility. Devices like smart speakers and voice assistants allow you to control lights, thermostats, and even appliances without needing to move around. You can make phone calls, set reminders, and even order groceries with simple voice commands. This technology not only makes daily tasks easier but also adds a layer of safety, allowing you to call for help hands-free in case of an emergency.

Adjust Electrical Outlet Heights

Standard electrical outlets are often placed too low for seniors, making them difficult to reach.

Raising the height of your electrical outlets to a more convenient level can prevent unnecessary bending and straining. Placing outlets higher on the wall, around 18 to 24 inches from the floor, ensures they are within easy reach whether you are sitting or standing. This modification is particularly beneficial for those using wheelchairs or walkers. Also, avoid overloading outlets in order to reduce the chance of fire.

Enhance Lighting Throughout Your Home

Good lighting is crucial for preventing falls and ensuring that you can see clearly. Install bright, energy-efficient LED bulbs in all rooms, especially in areas where you perform tasks such as reading, cooking, or sewing. Consider adding motion-sensor lights in hallways and bathrooms to provide instant illumination when you enter these spaces. Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen can also help you see better when preparing meals. Adequate lighting reduces the risk of accidents and makes your home feel more welcoming and comfortable.

Utilize a Home Repair and Maintenance App

Keeping your home in excellent condition requires regular maintenance and timely repairs. An app to help with various aspects of home repair services is a valuable tool for homeowners, simplifying the coordination of service appointments and tracking repair progress. Through the app, you can easily access detailed information about your home systems and appliances, and obtain estimates from skilled professionals for any needed work. Utilizing the right app enhances the home repair process, making it more organized and less overwhelming, ensuring your dwelling remains secure and well-maintained

Install Grab Bars in Key Areas

Grab bars provide extra support and stability in areas where you might need it the most, such as bathrooms and hallways. In the bathroom, install grab bars near the toilet and inside the shower or bathtub to help prevent slips and falls. These bars should be securely attached to the wall studs to ensure they can support your weight. Grab bars can also be beneficial in other parts of the home, such as next to steps or in narrow hallways. They offer a simple yet effective way to improve safety and mobility.

Create a Main-Floor Living Space

As stairs become more challenging, having a living space on the main floor of your home is beneficial. This space should include essential areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and laundry room. Eliminating the need to navigate stairs daily reduces the risk of falls and makes your home more accessible. Converting an existing room or adding an extension to create a main-floor living area can significantly enhance your quality of life and help you remain independent for longer.

Transforming your home with thoughtful modifications ensures it supports your independence as you age. Lever handles, voice-activated technology, and strategic lighting are just a few adjustments that can make a significant difference. Establishing a main-floor living area and installing safety features like grab bars further enhance your living space. By proactively making these changes, your home will remain a comfortable, safe haven for years to come.

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