Convenience, self-reliance, and mobility are a prerequisite for any aging person who wants to age in place and not end up in an elderly home. Home modifications aim to redesign the architectural structure of a house to accommodate older people or the disabled in the family. Home safety becomes increasingly important when seniors desire to maintain their independence or reduce overreliance on home care services. As a person’s age accelerates, so does the demand for mobility, balance, and better healthcare. After retirement, the majority of people may spend a substantial fraction of their time in their homes, and the ease of access to different rooms and facilities is vital.
Home assessments help to determine the areas usually frequented and items used. Such considerations include whether the senior person loves to spend time in the kitchen, if they use a wheelchair, how they like to clean up, or if they have a garden, among others. It is advisable to hire a modification specialist or an occupational therapist to conduct the exercise.
Home modifications will entirely depend on the available space and others, however costly, come secondary to the safety and security of elderly persons. Below is a list of home modifications to start with:
Install a Stairlift
One of the most crucial aspects for home living for the elderly is mobility. Due to age-related illnesses such as osteoarthritis, movement technically becomes a hard task and the only way to rid of this pain and address other inconveniences is by considering a mobility aid. To improve navigation, one can invest in a straight or curved stair lift or find a reconditioned stairlift when the cost in purchasing a new one is considerably high.
Expand Doorways
As the health of a senior person diminishes, the reliance for navigation aids such as walking sticks or wheelchairs increases. The architectural plan for most homes does not consider the use of walking aids and so acquiring one conceives the need to make some adjustments. The space at the doorways should not only accommodate for passing through but also for making turns. The possible changes may include trimming the wallboards, moving the light switch, and repair the flooring.
Upgrade the Flooring
Body balance for senior adults becomes an issue with time. Slippery flooring imposes danger, and a fall may become potentially destructive or cause impairment. Replacing such floors with rubber floors that are easier to clean and are slip resistant may avert this crisis.
Improve lighting
Light control measures such as dimmers may not be a necessity for elderly homes. This is because of the need for more light to locate items and move around. Proper lighting fixtures could prevent unforeseen dangers and manage people with dementia.
Replace outdoor staircase with ramp
Some older adults are interested in outdoor activities such as gardening or mowing and installing a ramp outside makes their pastime more enjoyable and gives them independence because they don’t have to rely on assistance every time.
It is important to note that home modifications are a continuous process due to further health deteriorations, alternating needs, and technological advancements. What worked some years ago can be replaced entirely or enhanced to fit the current requirements.
