As you age, it becomes increasingly important to make your home as comfortable and safe as possible. Luckily, there are many ways to update your home to make it more Aging in Place friendly. In this guide, we will discuss the most important updates you can make to your home to ensure that you can live there comfortably and safely for years to come.
Install A Stair Lift
If you or a loved one is starting to struggle with mobility, a stairlift can be a great way to maintain independence and keep everyone safe. Stairlifts can be installed in both straight and curved staircases, and there are models available for indoor and outdoor use.
Before you purchase a stairlift, it’s important to have a professional come to your home to assess the staircase and make sure that the installation will be possible. Once you have the green light, pick out a model from https://www.stiltzlifts.co.nz that fits both your budget and your needs. Some things to consider include weight capacity, power source (battery-operated or plugged into an outlet), seat type (swivel or fixed), and safety features. Once the stairlift is installed, it’s important to learn how to use it safely. Be sure to keep children and pets away from the stairs while the lift is in use, and always use the safety belt provided. It’s also a good idea to test out the lift before you need it—that way, if there are any problems, you can address them before an emergency arises.
Update Your Lighting
Updating your lighting is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your home more comfortable and stylish. It can also be a great way to save money on your energy bill. There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re updating your lighting. LED bulbs are a great option because they use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. In rooms where you spend a lot of time reading or working, you’ll want a brighter light. In bedrooms and living rooms, you may want softer, dimmer light. If your light fixtures are old or outdated, consider replacing them with something more modern. This is a great way to give your home an updated look.
Consider Adding Grab Bars
If you’re planning on aging in place, it’s important to start thinking about ways to make your home more accessible and comfortable as you get older. One simple way to do this is by adding grab bars in strategic locations around your home. Grab bars provide support and stability when moving from one area to another, which can be especially helpful as you age. Plus, they’re relatively easy and inexpensive to install. So if you’re looking for a simple way to make your home more aging-friendly, consider adding some grab bars.
If you’re not sure where to start, several online resources can help you plan and install grab bars in your home. The website for the American Society of Aging offers a detailed guide on how to add grab bars, complete with pictures and step-by-step instructions. And if you need more assistance, you can always consult with a professional home health care provider.
Update Your Flooring
One of the best ways to update your home for aging in place is by updating your flooring. This can be as simple as replacing old carpet with new hardwood floors, or it can be a more extensive project that includes removing and replacing entire sections of flooring. If you’re looking to make a big impact with minimal effort, consider installing a new tile floor. Not only is tile durable and easy to clean, but it also comes in a variety of styles and colors to match any decor. If you’re not interested in doing any major renovations, there are still plenty of small updates you can make to your flooring that will help improve safety and comfort.
One easy way to improve safety in your home is by adding rug grips to any rugs or mats that you have. Rug grips are small pieces of adhesive foam that can be attached to the bottom of rugs to prevent them from slipping and sliding around. This is a great solution for seniors with limited mobility, as it helps keep them from losing their balance when walking across slippery floors. Rug grips are also a great way to protect your flooring from damage caused by rugs moving around. If you have any area rugs in your home, consider adding rug grips to help keep them in place and reduce the amount of wear and tear they experience over time.
Aging in place can be a challenge, but with the right updates to your home, it can be much easier. Follow this guide to make the necessary changes and ensure that you can live comfortably in your home for years to come.
