Tortoises are known to live a long time in large part because their shell grows with them as they age. Humans can take advantage of this same basic principle as we get older. As the years pass, our needs and abilities change; our homes, however, often remain the same.
By following the wisdom of the tortoise, we can adapt our living spaces to accommodate these changes, allowing us to stay in our homes longer while remaining safe, comfortable, and independent.
Thankfully, aging-in-place remodeling is no shell game. There are plenty of upgrades, renovations, and modifications we can make to keep our homes accessible for older adults and anyone with mobility challenges. Let’s take a closer look at aging-in-place remodeling, its benefits and how to plan for it.
The Benefits of Aging-in-Place Remodeling
There are many benefits of home remodeling for older residents.
Maintaining Independence
Seniors who age in place have more control over their daily routines and decisions which can contribute to a greater sense of well-being and autonomy. They’re also able to navigate their home safely with a reduced chance of accidents or injuries.
Familiarity and Comfort
For many seniors, their home is a safe haven that’s filled with memories and cherished belongings. Aging in place allows them to stay in a familiar environment, which can help reduce stress and anxiety while nurturing feelings of peace and security.
Social Connection
Staying in their own homes allows older adults to remain connected to their friends, family and neighbors. This social interaction is important for mental and emotional health and can help combat feelings of loneliness, isolation and depression.
Lower Cost of Living
Many older adults choose aging-in-place remodeling because it’s a more cost-effective option and provides more independence than moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home. The temporary costs of home improvement are typically far less than the monthly payments for a care facility.
Better Health
Moving to a new environment, especially a crowded facility like a nursing home, can increase the risk of exposure to contagious diseases. Aging-in-place can help to reduce this risk. Older adults are typically better equipped to stay healthy in the comfort of their own homes.
With the right modifications, your home can continue to be a place where you feel comfortable, secure and happy.
Practical Aging-in-Place Remodeling Ideas
Aging-in-place remodeling can be tackled room by room. Here are some ideas:
Bathroom
- Grab bars near the toilet and shower
- Walk-in shower or tub
- Non-slip flooring
- Comfort-height toilet seats
- Adjustable-height shower head
Kitchen
- Lower countertops and cabinets for easy access
- Pull-out shelves
- Lever-style door handles
General
- Improved lighting and nightlights
- Lowered countertops
- Widened doorways
- Ramps
- Stairlifts
- Platform lifts- open or closed elevator type lifts
- Emergency call buttons
- Smart home automations like lighting, thermostats, sensors and cameras
Steps to Plan Your Aging-in-Place Remodeling
It’s important to make a thorough plan for aging-in-place remodeling before you begin. Here are some general steps to guide you through the process:
Initial Assessment
Identify any places in your home that are currently a challenge or you anticipate becoming an issue. Consider your health conditions, mobility issues and lifestyle as you walk through the entire house — inside and out — with an aging-in-place checklist.
Hire Professionals
We strongly recommend hiring professional contractors to perform most remodeling work. Experienced contractors will ensure that all your home modifications, from the simplest to the most complex, are performed adequately and safely.
Budgeting
Every remodeling project is different and costs can vary widely. Be sure to understand what changes you need to make to your home and get cost estimates before determining your final budget. There are multiple financing options available for people in virtually any income category. Remember, investing in aging-in-place remodeling can save you money in the long run by avoiding the high costs of assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
Aging-in-Place Remodeling With Omicelo Health
At Omicelo Health, we understand the importance of aging-in-place remodeling for older homeowners. Our team of experts is ready to help you plan and implement home modifications to make your house safer and more accessible as you age.
From assessing your home to identifying areas that need improvement, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today for more information. Let’s work together to ensure your golden years are spent in a home that’s comfortable, safe and perfectly suited for you.
