Studies show that 77% of adults over 50 prefer to age in place. Many people want to stay in their homes for the long haul because it allows them to manage their lives on their own terms as they age.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of home modifications for aging in place, potential challenges for homeowners, and how to manage the associated costs.
Understanding Aging in Place
Aging in place happens when an individual decides to remain in their home instead of moving into an assisted living facility or retirement community. It allows older adults to stay where they feel the most comfortable and remain around their family, friends and neighbors as they age.
Some seniors, however — especially those with physical or cognitive health conditions — can benefit from aging-in-place home modifications that support their changing needs.
Challenges for Aging Homeowners
Certain things around the home can become hard to manage as we age, such as the stairs and the bathtub or shower. Older adults are at a higher risk of accidents and falls, making poorly lit spaces, hazardous floors and cramped areas some of the most essential renovations.
Aging-in-place home modifications address these concerns and provide homeowners and their loved ones with peace of mind, knowing the home is safe and accessible.
Common Aging-in-Place Home Modifications
Home modifications are essential for older adults who prefer to age in place. Let’s look at the most common solutions for homeowners.
Grab Bars
Grab bars provide stability and support to help older adults maintain their balance. Strategically placed grab bars help prevent falls and accidents in areas like the bathroom and kitchen where floors can become slippery.
Walk-In Showers
With a walk-in shower, homeowners can enter the shower without stepping over a barrier, creating a safer space for aging adults.
Comfort Height Toilets
Comfort height toilets are an aging-in-place home modification that makes it easier for older adults to sit and stand. They can be “chair height,” providing a more comfortable, easier-to-manage toilet.
Lifts and Ramps
Stairlifts, mobility lifts and ramps provide wheelchair users with easy and safe navigation around the home. With these modifications, homeowners have more access to their entire space, including porches and second floors or basements.
Cost Considerations for Aging in Place
The cost of aging-in-place home modifications can vary widely depending on what needs altering and the materials the homeowner chooses to use. Renovating a home can involve making structural changes to improve accessibility and safety for aging adults. These modifications can come with a higher price tag because of the extent of the renovation.
On the other hand, many solutions — including non-slip flooring and better lighting — are affordable and can even be installed by the homeowner. If more expensive modifications are needed, you may have access to available resources for older adults on a limited budget.
You can explore financing options, including grants, loans or tax credits, to offset some of the costs associated with a renovation. The team at Omicelo Health can help you through that process and discuss which options best fit your needs.
Home Modifications With Omicelo Health
At Omicelo Health, we help homeowners plan and implement home modifications for aging in place. From the first consultation to your complete installation, our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way. We understand the importance of remaining independent in your home and want to provide the proper solutions for you to safely age in place.
We’re here to help you with your accessibility needs. Contact us today to learn more about our solutions for aging homeowners.
