As we age or have to deal with a disability, suddenly our homes become an obstacle course. When you find daily life becoming more difficult, especially in your own home, it may be time to make some changes. For those who are in their later years or have a disability, know that you can remodel your home to make the most basic activities inside your home easier. JBS Custom Remodeling would like to share what “aging in place remodeling” is and some suggestion on how you can improve your home for seniors and those with disabilities.
How Do You Prepare Your House for Aging in Place?
When remodeling a home for aging in place, the focus is on creating a safe, comfortable, and accessible environment that can help seniors or those with psychical disabilities. When you need to make some changes but are not sure where to start, here are some ideas during a remodeling that can help make your home a better environment for you or your loved one.
• Entrance: Make sure the entrances to your home are all easy to come through. Consider having minimal steps, and make sure the doors are wider to allow wheelchairs or walkers to pass through. This also includes doorways inside your home. You may also want to consider installing an automatic door opener to make entering or leaving your home more convenient.
• Flooring: For those that have disabilities or for seniors, consider replacing slippery or uneven flooring with a slip-resistant and smooth surface, such as low-pile carpet or hardwood. It is also recommended to avoid using area rugs or mats that can create slipping or tripping hazards.
• Lighting: It helps to increase the amount of natural light and install better lighting. This can include adding task lighting and nightlights. By improving the lighting during the day and night it can help improve visibility and reduce the risk of falls.
• Bathroom: In the bathroom you may want to install grab bars, shower benches, and non-slip flooring. Additionally, consider replacing the bathtub for a walk-in shower or installing a bathtub lift to make it easier to get in and out. Again make the entrances or doorways wider to make sure you can get in and out of the bathroom with your walker or a wheelchair.
• Kitchen: There is a lot that can be done in the kitchen. Start by installing cabinets, countertops and appliances at a height that can be easily reached from a seated position. You may also want to consider adding pull-out shelves or drawers to make it easier to access your cookware and other items.
• Stairs: If you have a home with stairs you will want to install handrails on both sides of the staircase and ensure that the steps are well-lit and have a slip-resistant flooring. Depending on the condition of the residence you may also want to consider installing a stair lift or elevator if there are mobility problems.
• Technology: There is a number of modern equipment that you can install to help monitor and aid household members. You can install smart home technology, such as voice-activated controls or sensors, to help seniors manage their daily activities and maintain their independence. You can also add safety systems as well as a camera system inside the home to that your loved one can be checked on at any time.
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The primary changes when remodeling a home for aging in place should be focused on improving accessibility, safety, and the comfort for seniors or those with disabilities. If you need help remodeling your home for any reason, contact JBS Custom Remodeling today.