Aging in place is doable when we upgrade our home for easier living. Making home modifications is the right thing to do, peace of mind, quality of life and safety. Creating a better home environment doesn’t have to be a big, expensive deal. Small changes can be huge in their effects. Accidents are a leading cause of death among seniors, and it is therefore vitally important to take a look at your home from a safety point of view.
EASE & SAFETY In The Kitchen
High cabinet shelves in the kitchen are a nightmare more many, particularly if you are short. Climbing up on step stools or reaching up may have been no big deal when you were young, but now they can be dangerous propositions. It only takes is single misstep or fall to hurt yourself. And, if you have brittle bones, as many of us do, you may find yourself in the hospital.
There is an easy solution. Just take everything off the top shelves or ask a younger family member or friend to help you. You might want to add extra lower shelves in a more convenient location. Add a single shelf under the top cabinets for small items, and free up the shelves you can reach comfortably for the items once kept on the top shelf. Peruse Pinterest for downsizing and storage ideas.
CONSIDER A LIFT CHAIR
Getting in and out of a chair can be a strain on your back, your knees, your hips and if you struggle with your balance may also lead to a fall. A lift chair makes the whole process simple! With a push of a button you can go from sitting to standing without effort or strain. Many enjoy napping in their lift chairs. They recline fully so you don’t have to spend more hours in your bed than you already do. Some chairs even have heat and massage elements built-in which are wonderful for alleviating aches and pains.
Get Up The Stairs With Ease
Stairs are a particularly dangerous element of a home. If it’s time for you to upgrade your home for easier living, you may want to seriously consider having a stairlift installed in your home. They come in all sizes to fit all types of staircases. You may be able to find a used stairlift that better fits your budget. Many dealers carry them and will install them for you. Save your energy for the things you enjoy doing and keep yourself safe from a sudden loss of balance, a knee going out and an unexpected fall.
DON’T GIVE UP YOUR BATH
A long, leisurely soak in a bath is not only one of the most enjoyable ways to relax, it’s wonderful for aches and pains. But, many people remove the bath and replace it with a shower when it becomes difficult to get in and out. To hang on to one of life’s little pleasures, consider replacing your tub with a walk-in bath.
Extra Assistance With Handrails
Installing extra grab bars and handrails is a must to upgrade your home for easier living. Have them installed anywhere in your home where you could use an extra hand. These areas commonly include next to the toilet, in the shower, by the bed, and in the kitchen. Bars and handrails will make getting in and out of bed easier, getting up from the toilet, and providing support in the kitchen especially if you enjoy cooking and stand for long periods of time.
We are stubborn about giving up our independence as we get older. But, taking the time to upgrade your home for easier living, and safer living, will actually improve your ability to remain independent.
