In the United States, 76% of adults aged 50 and over want to remain in their homes rather than move to a retirement community or nursing facility. This refers to the growing trend of older adult Americans wanting to age in place. While aging in place has some risks, many can be counteracted by making in-home adjustments.
Keep reading to learn five things to modify in your household if you plan to age in place:
1. Create a Master Retreat on the First Floor
Every night when you go to sleep, you should walk into your bed without needing to navigate steps. Creating a master retreat on the first floor simplifies your evening routine while minimizing risks. While updating your floor plan, consider organizing the space so there is less clutter to maneuver around at night.
You should also add hand grabs and bed rails to ensure easy access in and out of your favorite chair or bed. An individual surrounded by familiar objects is more likely to feel calm and safe than if they were living in a strange or foreign setting.
2. Minimize the Need for Stairs
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four older adults falls each year, but most choose not to report the experience to their doctors. Minimizing the need for stair usage will help lower the risks of serious falls.
Consider the areas of your house you use most frequently and create an equivalent on the main floor. Ask family members to bring down items from upstairs when they visit.
If you feel like you must go upstairs frequently, then install a stair chair lift or small elevator. This mode of transportation will make journeying upstairs simple and hassle-free. Think about it — would you rather install a lift or risk a serious injury?
3. Renovate Your Kitchen
Many people consider the kitchen to be the most important area in the house. With this in mind, you should renovate your kitchen if you plan to age in place. As you get older, certain movements can cause strain on your body. Reaching and bending can lead to a loss of balance or strained ligaments. Consider decreasing the cabinet height or only using the lower shelves.
Also, buy alternatives to your traditional glass and ceramic dinnerware and glasses. There are many stylish plastic designs that will not break or shatter if dropped. Take this time to upgrade any kitchen appliances that may be outdated. Choose products with simple, clear controls and install a dishwasher if one wasn't previously in place.
4. Update Your Bathroom
The CDC ranked the bathroom as the most dangerous room in the house because of the potential for accidents. In one study, the toilet was the most common site of a home accident, and most incidents occurred when the person was alone. You should add numerous grab bars throughout the room to help you sit and stand as needed.
Do you prefer taking showers or baths? If you use a bathtub frequently, consider installing a step to simplify getting inside. If you prefer a shower, assess whether adding a chair would make the experience easier. Add a nonskid mat to your bath or shower to reduce the risk of slipping.
5. Refresh the Outdoor Areas
Before you get comfortable in your newly renovated home, you should update and refresh your yard and outdoor space. Prune any bushes protruding into the sidewalk and trim tree limbs that could fall on the house if there was a storm. If necessary, install a sidewalk to create an accessible entry. If the house does not have a garage, build a covered walkway to access the driveway. This will protect against inclement weather like ice that could make the area slippery.
Consider hiring someone to maintain your property as the seasons change. Keeping things tidy will decrease the risk of bugs or rodents entering your home.
A Home That Will Last a Lifetime
If you implement these five key modifications, you can reduce the risks associated with aging in place. Your home will be prepared to support you for a lifetime, and you can enjoy the comfort and ease that only exists in a familiar setting.
Best of all, you can delight in the peace and quiet you might not have found at a nursing facility. Your family can also come and visit easily. Just remember to keep a phone or medical alert system nearby so you can quickly contact someone if needed.
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