Most people would prefer to keep living in their homes as they age. These feelings are understandable. You worked hard to pay for your home, and you probably have a lot of fond memories from living there for so many years.
While you might want to stay in your home, it might not be suitable as a place to live for an aging person. You might need to adapt the home in a variety of ways so it can meet the needs of an aging person. Along with that, you might want to remodel so you can do things like update the paint or fix different parts of the home.
It is important to note that this is not like planning a home renovation with the intention of selling. The goal of this remodel is to stay in the home and to make it better suited to the needs of an aging person or couple. That means you need to plan with these goals in mind.
Consider Financing
A look at your finances can help you determine the types of remodeling work you can do. If your retirement income is enough, you might be able to get a home renovation loan or take a new mortgage out on your home. If your retirement income is tight, you could consider a reverse mortgage. This can be a good option because the borrower does not have to make monthly payments. With that said, there are important conditions to these loans, so you should take the time to learn how a reverse mortgage works before contacting lenders.
Doors and Windows
Updating your doors and windows can be a smart move if you want to age at home. Start by planning an entrance that will be easier for an aging person to use. It doesn’t have to be the front door, you just want to have a place that makes it easier for an older person to get in and out of the home. Try to have few to no steps, and you might want to consider widening the entryway. You could also consider switching from a doorknob to a door that uses a lever handle since they are easier to open.
The main concern for windows is the ease with which they can be unlatched and opened. Sliding windows can be a good option for the homes of older people. You might also want to consider energy-efficient windows if you are getting them replaced. It isn’t an upgrade for aging in place, but it will make your home more efficient and reduce your energy bills.
Stairs and Halls
If you have stairs or long hallways, you might need to make some adaptations. To start, ample lighting is necessary for both hallways and stairs. You could also make the stairs safer by having a handrail on both sides. If the stairs are not carpeted, you might want to consider putting traction pads on each step to prevent falls.
Lighting and Electric
You should also look at the lighting and electrical system of the home. You might not be able to see as well as you get older, so it might help to add some lights. You might want to add lights to the bathroom or kitchen. You should also think about the exterior lighting and how that can be improved. Make sure your walkway is well lit and that you have sufficient lighting by the entry door you plan to use.
An older person might benefit from adding or moving electrical outlets in the home. As an example, it might help to move some of the outlets a little higher on the wall. With the outlets a little higher, you won’t have to bend down so far to use them. You might also want to add outlets in different places to make the home more convenient.
Bathroom
A bathroom remodel can be smart if you plan to age at home. It will make the bathroom safer for an older person, and it will also make the space more accessible. One idea is to make the door wider. Along with that, you could switch the door so it opens out into the hallway. That will make it easier to get in and out of the bathroom if you ever need a mobility device like a walker.
You could also consider removing the tub and turning it into a stand-up shower. This will be more accessible for an older person. Along with that, you might want to add grab bars near the toilet and in the shower. Consider your flooring as well. If the tiles tend to get slippery, you might want to replace them with an alternative that offers better traction.
Home Automation
New home automation technology can do a lot to make a home more senior-friendly. You could install smart lights that can be managed from an app on your phone. Switching to a smart thermostat could help to make the climate control system easier to manage. You also have things like smart locks and smart blinds.
If you want to go a step further, you could consider a smart security system. Many of the smart security systems also support home automation. Some of them are also compatible with PERs devices to protect against medical emergencies.
Home renovations can make a big difference for people who want to age at home. Thoughtful renovations can make the home more convenient, safer and better suited to meet the needs of an aging individual or couple. You just need to take the time to plan the renovations carefully.
