Aging-in-place is a rising trend. Ninety percent of older adults now wish to live at home as long as possible instead of moving to a traditional care or assisted living community. Preparation usually requires some modifications to the home so aging individuals can age-in-place safely.
For some older adults, a simple DIY solution may be all that is needed. For example, a grab bar installation in the shower. However, a partial or complete home remodel may be necessary to achieve a safe, accessible home that is suitable for others choosing to age in place.
DIY and professional remodeling options exist to ensure safety during a homeowner’s golden years. While some rooms may require significant overhauls, others will need only a few upgrades to make the home comfortable for aging-in-place.
DIY Home Modifications:
Before committing to an aging-in-place home remodel project, assess the space for DIY opportunities, including:
Removing clutter.
Consider getting rid of items you or your loved one doesn’t use or need anymore, and toss any excess trash. Host a garage sale, donate lightly used items, or sell anything that is in good condition. By removing clutter, you’ll better understand what else needs to be improved and modified so you or your loved one can age in place comfortably.
Rugs, clothing on the floor, or anything else that could potentially cause a trip risk is dangerous for older adults.
Assessing the floor plan.
Is the home an open-concept design? Is it on two or more floors? Are there stairs? What about appliances or other home fixtures that may be challenging to access? These are some things you need to assess before considering a home remodel. For example, stairs can pose a risk for older adults. One way to combat this is to install a chair lift. Objectively look at where you can make modifications and make a plan to do so.
Eliminating fall risks and hazards.
Rugs, clothing on the floor, or anything else that could potentially cause a trip risk is dangerous for older adults. Make sure rugs lay flat and stay in place by using a carpet pad or take the rug completely out of the home if possible. Other trip hazards include poorly arranged furniture or wet floors in the home.
Installing shower grab bars.
Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous areas in the home for older adults. This is because they often stay wet, which can pose a fall risk. Install grab bars, a safety chair, and a slip-resistant mat in the shower to improve safety.
An often overlooked part of aging is the inability to engage in regular, everyday activities that require hand strength, like turning on a faucet to wash your hands or to get a glass of water.
Adding medical notification devices in the home.
Medical notification devices are a key part of the aging process and can make a big difference if there is an emergency. Be sure to place them in all areas of the home that are within easy reach, and regularly test them to ensure they are in working order if something were to happen.
Taking advantage of smart technology.
Smart technology can also be used to simplify the lives of older adults. It can help you or your loved one stay informed about appointments or other important events or medication reminders and may also act as a medical technology that connects to insulin pumps or medical wearables. In conjunction with one another, this technology works to monitor health and medication doses, further ensuring your or your aging loved one’s health and safety.
Remodeling for Aging in Place:
Although there are many options for DIY home modifications, others require a construction or remodeling project to make the home safe and functional for aging individuals and their changing needs.
Scroggs Construction can help with the following:
Building wheelchair-accessible ramps.
Steps are a trip hazard and can be difficult for older adults with mobility issues to navigate. By building a wheelchair ramp, it makes the home more accessible and secure.
Remodeling kitchens and bathrooms.
Remodeling kitchens and bathrooms make them more conducive to aging by changing the layout of the space. This includes installing lower cabinets and counters, sink fixtures, appliances, slip-proof flooring, and other modifications as necessary.
Replacing and updating flooring.
By choosing slip-resistant options or carpeting, often best left up to professionals, proper flooring can prevent slips, trips, and falls or minimize their impact.
With thoughtful planning and a builder like Scroggs Construction who understands the importance of redesigning a space for aging-in-place, a home remodel can be done safely and effectively, bringing peace of mind and a better quality of life.
Installing and replacing faucets.
An often overlooked part of aging is the inability to engage in regular, everyday activities that require hand strength, like turning on a faucet to wash your hands or to get a glass of water. It can be made easier with touch technology, easy-grip handles, and lower sink fixtures for those with arthritis or other conditions that make it difficult to complete these tasks.
Installing a walk-in tub.
Installing a walk-in tub is another great way to prevent accidents. These tubs make it simpler for aging loved ones to safely bathe without the risk of slipping while entering the tub.
Widening doorways.
Widening doorways throughout the home makes it more accessible for those who may have wheelchairs or other mobility aids. It also makes it easier for first responders to get inside if necessary.
With thoughtful planning and a builder like Scroggs Construction who understands the importance of redesigning a space for aging-in-place, a home remodel can be done safely and effectively, bringing peace of mind and a better quality of life.
Contact us today to book a consultation. You can also view our portfolio to browse ideas for your next home remodel project.