More and more seniors are opting for renovating their current residence to suit their needs instead of pulling up stakes and moving from their home of many years. Some renovations can be costly and extensive, but there are many minor changes you can make that will make life easier. The key is to look at your routine and habits and see if you can modify your home to better suit your needs.
General Changes
Replace round doorknobs with lever-style handles which are much easier for arthritic hands to turn.
Put lights at the top and bottom of all stairways, high traffic areas and closets. Rocker switches tend to be easier to use for people in wheelchairs. Dimmer switches can be handy for directing low lighting to specific areas, such as between the bedroom and bathroom. Small night lights are good for those areas as well.
Remove all throw rugs, they are too easy to trip on, and a source of many accidents.
You may want to widen doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or use swinging or sliding doors.
The backs of stairs should be filled in to prevent falls, and install handrails on both sides.
Add extra telephones so that you never have to run to answer the phone, or use cordless models.
If you're trekking up and down stairs to do the laundry, consider relocating your laundry room to the main floor. The apartment size, stackable units can easily fit into an existing closet.
Place a fire alarm in every room and test it regularly.
An emergency response system can assist in the case of emergencies. Generally they can be installed for a small price with a subsequent monthly monitoring fee.
Bathroom
Install grab bars by the tub and toilet.
Hand-held shower heads are easier to use when using a bath seat.
If replacing faucets, consider lever type or control arm taps for easier use.
Door locks should be easy to use with large knobs and an emergency release.
A bath seat or raised toilet seat can make life easier.
Living Room
Treat yourself to new furniture that has high cushions and sturdy arms; you'll be surprised at how much easier those up's and down's will be.
Kitchen
Consider adding lower level shelves, lazy-susan cabinets or sliding shelves for easier access.
Outdoors
Place a bench outside each entrance to your home. The next time you're trying to unlock the door with your arms full of groceries, you'll appreciate the rest stop for you and your packages.
Place a textured surface on your outdoor steps and ensure you have solid hand rails.
