5 Home Modifications to Help Seniors Age in Place

As we age, our needs change. More and more seniors are choosing to age in place, which means staying in their own homes for as long as possible. Making some simple home modifications can help make this possible, while ensuring your loved ones are safe and comfortable.

Deciding to age in place is not one to be taken lightly. It requires a comprehensive and personalized plan that addresses all of the potential challenges an individual might face as they get older.

In this blog post, we will discuss five home modifications that are essential for seniors aging in place.

If you or a loved one is considering aging in place, here are the top home modifications that will help you stay safe and comfortable at home:

Replace doorknobs with lever-style handles to make opening doors easier

Replacing doorknobs with lever-style handles can be a simple but effective way to make doors easier and more comfortable to open. Lever-style door handles require less gripping strength than traditional doorknobs, making them an ideal option for those with impaired hand strength or mobility, such as elderly people or those with disabilities and/or mobility issues.

Use non-skid mats in the bathtub and kitchen to reduce the risk of falls

Non-slip mats are very affordable, easy to install, and incredibly effective at reducing the likelihood of a dangerous accident in the home. Using non-skid mats in places where water is present, such as the bathtub and kitchen, is an excellent way to reduce the risk of falls. Not only do these mats provide a more secure footing for seniors and those with mobility issues, but they also protect them against possible injury due to a slip or fall.

Install motion-activated night lights to prevent risk of falling

Accidents can happen, especially at night when visibility is low and the risk of tripping or slipping increases. Adding motion-activated night lights to your home is a great way to ensure that the risk of tripping or falling in the dark is minimized. These lights can be placed in hallways and staircases, as well as in bedrooms or bathrooms.

Place railings along stairs for stability when climbing

Staircases can be dangerous if not approached with caution and care. Installing railings along each side of a staircase can help to ensure safety while climbing and descending stairs, especially for those with mobility issues, who may not have the same balance and steadiness as someone without such limitations.

Railings play an important role in providing additional stability when using stairways, acting as a point of support for people to lean against if needed. This makes moving up and down any flight of stairs much easier and far less risky, reducing the risk of slips or falls that could lead to serious injury or other harm.

Install grab bars in bathrooms and showers for safety

Grab bars are an invaluable tool for those who require extra assistance when moving around the home. These sturdy pieces of equipment provide much-needed support and stability, especially when getting up and down from a seated position in the bathtub or shower. Installing grab bars around the home will give seniors the confidence they need to bathe safely and securely, ensuring their safety is never compromised.

These five must-have home modifications are essential for seniors aging in place. By taking the necessary steps to make your home senior-friendly and following safety precautions, you can help to ensure the health and well-being of those you care about. Remember that making your home senior-friendly is not only a great way to keep your loved ones safe and comfortable, but also an investment in their long-term quality of life.

If you’re looking for more advice and tips on making your home senior-friendly, our dedicated team at Universal Home Consulting is here to help you. Our goal is to provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific needs and budget. With the right home modifications, aging in place will be much easier and safer for seniors.

At Universal Home Consulting, we understand the importance of aging in place and helping families feel confident that their loved ones can stay safe and healthy at home. We offer virtual home safety assessments to help families identify potential risks and create a plan to address them. We also provide caregiver coaching to provide education and support to help prevent injury and burnout.