There is an upward trend occurring where seniors and retirees no longer seek a life of leisure within a retirement community instead opting to age in place. There are many reasons that seniors are looking to stay in their homes longer including the fact that they are in better health and physical condition than past generations. Even though seniors are at the top of their game in 2019 there are still precautions to take in creating safe spaces within their homes. Even though their health is better, aging still takes a toll and changes the way in which their bodies operate.
One of the first areas that we like to focus on is the bathroom. There are a number of hurdles that can make the bathroom the most danger room in the house for aging seniors. Getting in and out of a tub, standing from the toilet, dim lighting, and inefficient cabinets. Simple renovations can include:
- Installation of a comfort-height toilet
- Putting in place grab bars
- Replacing standard tubs with step-through tubs or showers without a curb
- Add sliding shelves under bathroom sinks for easy access to products kept under the sink
Stairs also create a challenge for aging family member inside and outside of the home. Chair lifts make two story homes doable for seniors that have trouble navigating the stairs. Exterior ramps can be installed to make entering and exiting the home safer. Handicap ramps can be installed either permanently or temporarily and can be made from a number of materials from wood to aluminum.
Another major issue that is present for seniors that choose to stay in their homes as they age is the issue of lighting. Aging causes changes in vision and make it hard to see when the natural light is not present such as in the evening. With the installation of light switches that light up at night and motion-activated lights, it is easier for seniors to move about even when it is dark out.
Age in place remodeling, otherwise known as universal design, is making it possible for seniors to stay in their homes longer. Universal design creates an environment using products that offer safety and comfort to people of all abilities without further need for adaptation. Glen Miller the Home Doctor has been installing wheelchair accessible ramps, renovating bathrooms, adding additional lighting, and creating safe homes for seniors and those with mobility issues.
Glen Miller the Home Doctor is a licensed general contractor servicing Livingston County and the surrounding areas. Glen offers a wide range of services including home maintenance plans, age in place remodeling, kitchen and bathroom remodeling, finished basements, and hardwood floor refinishing. More information can be found online at https://www.glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/.