Essential Home Renovations for Aging in Place

Many seniors want to retain their independence and stay in their home, but struggle to live there comfortably as they age. In order to enable a senior to enjoy a happy and safe life in a place where they can feel at peace, it’s often necessary to make a few modifications to their living space. Elder care professionals explain that such modifications may include:

Adjusting the height of the dishwasher

In order to prevent strain when loading and unloading the dishwasher, try raising the height of the machine. This makes it easier to take care of this chore without feeling stiff as a result.

Adding in pull-out shelves

When your elderly loved one has to bend down to access lower cabinets, it can put a lot of stress on their back. To make it easier to access pots, pans, and other items, insert pull-out shelves into traditional cabinets. They prevent the need to reach into the depths of the cabinet to access cooking utensils. These cabinets are typically available at a local shelving company or can be installed by a contractor. 

Install grab bars in bathrooms

Grab bars are crucial for keeping your senior safe as they shower or take a bath, explain senior care professionals. Bathrooms can become a serious safety risk, as elderly individuals can slip or get off balance quickly, resulting in a devastating fall. Place grab bars in bathrooms, as well as in bedrooms and in hallways in order to keep your elderly loved one safely on their feet as they move about their home.

Keep the shower safe

To make sure your elderly loved one stays safe while bathing, consider covering the floor of the bathtub in a nonstick coating. You can also purchase a shower seat, which allows your senior to bathe without having to stand on their feet and maneuver around during their shower. This makes the process easier and much less risky. 

In order to make it easier to see in the evening hours, make sure that lightbulbs throughout the home are strong and haven’t burnt out. Also verify that there are no loose cords or other items lying on the floor that could create a tripping hazard. This includes area rugs and grandkids’ toys.