According to a survey from the AARP Public Policy Institute and National Conference of State Legislatures, approximately 90% of people age 65 and older want to stay in their homes as long as they possibly can. It makes a lot of sense for people to want to age in place since they are comfortable in their homes. However, some home modifications or accommodations must be met as well to adapt to life as you get older. Home modifications don’t always have to be extensive, though, and here are a few to consider that can make a significant impact on your quality of life.
Add Threshold Ramps
Part of aging in place means eliminating trip and fall hazards. Threshold ramps play an important role in this, and they are easy to install. Temporary threshold ramps can simply be laid down in entryways, but you can also opt for professional installation for a permanent solution. Anyone who uses a mobility device like a wheelchair, walker, scooter, or anything else can feel more confident navigating the home when threshold ramps are present. Your physical disability can be easier to deal with when you don’t have to worry about as many trip hazards. And the peace of mind when walking throughout your home is very underrated when aging in place.
Improve Lighting In Dark Areas
Lighting is another aspect that might need to be upgraded in your home. Evaluate hallways, bathrooms, and other spaces you might have to walk through when it’s dark. Plugging in night lights is easy to do and inexpensive. You could also opt for motion detection lighting so you don’t even have to worry about flipping a switch to get adequate light. Anyone with a physical disability might have trouble moving around in the dark and can easily fall off balance if they don’t anticipate an obstacle. Make aging in place easier to adapt to by improving lighting throughout the home.
Rearrange Furniture
One of the simplest home modifications to complete is rearranging furniture to make the space feel more open. Navigating around couches, tables, rugs, and other things can be dangerous depending on the placement of those items. Plus, creating an open concept can also be aesthetically pleasing and help if you have a cognitive disability. Aging in place is all about creating a safe and comfortable environment. Even if you are healthy and moving around flawlessly now, your situation can change as you get older. Prepare for the future by making your home more accessible now.
Next Day Access helps people age in place so they can live as comfortably as possible. Whether you need a wheelchair ramp, a threshold ramp, need bathroom accessibility, or anything else to help you navigate your home, we’ve got you covered. People have a common misconception that home modifications have to be extensive and expensive to age in place successfully.
When you contact us for a free home evaluation, you might be surprised at how simple and cost-effective it is to make your home safe to age in place for years to come.
