Many Americans would rather age at home rather than be checked into an assisted living facility. To be able to age in place, some changes need to be made throughout the house to ensure safety. Here are some of the things you should do to prepare a home for aging in place:
Adjust the Entrance
Getting inside of the home can be difficult for seniors. Pathways that are cracked, uneven, and cluttered are a recipe for disaster. That’s why homeowners should start by adjusting their home’s entrance. Add non-slip stripes or scuff the surface of the pavement to create improved footing. Repair cracked and uneven pavement. Lastly, if your home has stairs, install one and a half-inch thick rails on both sides.
Adjust the Kitchen
There are three things you should focus on when adapting your kitchen for aging in place: appliances, pantry access, and faucets. As people age, they become less mobile. Switch to kitchen appliances that have easy-to-read controls and are simple to use. For the pantry, switch from closed glass cabinets to open shelving to ensure easy access to everyday items. Lastly, install pressure-balanced valves to provide a steady water temperature, regardless of the pressure.
Improve Bathroom Safety
Bathrooms can be one of the most challenging rooms in the house. Take the necessary steps to improve bathroom safety before a senior is aging in place in the home. You can prevent falls by installing slip-prevention flooring around the bathroom and shower area. You can also install grab bars in the shower, tub, and next to the toilet. A well-positioned chair inside the shower will make showering comfortable and safe for the aging in place senior.
Don’t Neglect Lighting
Did you know that seniors need two to three times more sunlight to see as well as young people? That’s why good lighting inside the home is so important. It will provide seniors a healthy dose of vitamin D, as well as help them be able to see properly. Sunlight also improves psychological health and lessens the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
We Help Aging in Place Attainable
Freedom Mobility has all the equipment needed to help your loved one age in place. From grab bars and elevated toilet seats to wheelchair ramps and stairlifts, we have what you need. We’re the number one place for MD home accessibility equipment. Contact us now for more information.