They say that growing old is a privilege denied to many, so you should enjoy your golden years, but those years come with many unknowns. Tasks that used to be no big deal are suddenly difficult and confusing, and your health and safety are more important than ever.
Age Safe America states that 55 percent of falls by older adults happen inside the home, with another 23% occurring outside but near the home. The good news is that you can make home modifications to allow you to age in place with more peace of mind. Let’s look at what some of those modifications are.
Brighten Up Your Home
Light is important in every age group, but did you know that after the age of 65, your eyes need twice as much lighting as they did when you were under 20? That means you should find ways to increase the amount of light your home gets by adding natural light sources and choosing paint colors to brighten up a space.
To add natural light to a space, you can install more windows or increase the size of windows you already have. Skylights and sliding glass doors are also excellent features that will boost the amount of natural light a space gets. You’ll also want to avoid dark paint and flooring since the dark colors absorb more light, making it more difficult to see during the day.
Keep Up with Technology
Technology is our friend and is constantly changing – usually for the better. Having remote controls for everything from ceiling fans to lighting will make life easier for you. Investing in voice-activated technology throughout is another great option.
Voice-activated technology can be used to control your thermostat, turn your kitchen faucet on and off, and even control your television – no more searching for that lost remote!
Zero-Threshold Spaces are a Must
Steps may look nice, but they can be a hazard. That’s why a zero-threshold entry – an entry with no steps- is so important.
Depending on how the home is designed, you may need to install a ramp that will reduce the risk of a fall and also accommodate a wheelchair if one is needed down the road.
The bathroom is another area where you should eliminate steps if possible. Upgrading to a walk-in, zero-threshold shower to prevent any embarrassing falls in the shower.
Lastly, if your home is on multiple levels or has sunken rooms, you’ll want to have grab bars or railing to help you get from one level to the next and ensure any steps are clearly marked. Better yet, you could install a threshold ramp that will allow you to navigate between spaces without worrying about obstacles.
Widen Your Doorways
The standard doorway ranges between 28 and 32 inches, which is not wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair or a walker. Increasing the width of your doorways to at least 36 inches will make the rooms in your home much easier to access.
Consider Your Flooring
Now may not be the time to choose your flooring based on the hottest trends. Choosing functional and low-maintenance flooring that will reduce the risk of a fall should be your priority.
This means avoiding anything that is slippery. You may also want to part ways with your decorative area rugs since they can bunch up and cause you to trip.
Choosing between hardwood flooring and carpeting may be your best option. If you require a walker or a wheelchair, the carpeting may be difficult to maneuver. However, if you fall, carpeting can provide a softer landing that may prevent injury. Whichever you choose, make sure to keep the floors clear of any obstructions that might cause a fall.
If you have questions about how to prepare your home to allow you to age in place, we are here to help.
