If you are planning to live your golden years in your current home, it would make sense to make it more accessible. Through an aging-in-place or mobility remodel, you can be empowered to continue living at home, safely and comfortably while maintaining your sense of independence.
STL Design and Build takes a look at seven upgrades you’ll want to consider when planning an aging-in-place or mobility remodeling project.
1. Bathroom Bench
Bathroom benches aren’t only for the elderly, but for people of all ages as well. These benches reduce the risk of bathroom-related accidents, such as slipping and falling. You can choose a built-in or a wall-hung bench that you can fold up. The materials used for these benches must be moisture-resistant as well.
2. Safety Bars
Adding these in your shower is a must if you plan to make the space more accessible. Safety bars provide support in a usually wet and slippery environment. Safety bars can also be used in bathtubs. They provide assistance to help you get out of the bathtub with lesser difficulty.
3. Levers
From your door to your faucets, levers are better options for your aging-in-place remodel. These are helpful for people experiencing arthritis and other musculoskeletal disorders, minimizing pain associated with holding and gripping onto objects.
4. Smart Home Features
Smart home technologies can be controlled remotely and are generally designed to make your daily tasks easier. For instance, certain lighting fixtures have sensors that can detect when someone is entering or exiting a room, turning the lights on and off automatically.
5. Stair Lights
Although it may seem like a small adjustment, stair lights are extremely helpful. These help you see where you’re going, especially in a more dangerous area, such as the stairs. You can also have a sensor installed so they turn on when you’re approaching them.
6. Lower Countertops and Cabinets
With old age, it becomes harder to reach and even more difficult to use a ladder to get up and reach something in the top shelf of your cabinets. Although floor-to-ceiling cabinets are functional in younger families, they become hard to use over time. Consider making adjustments to the height of your cabinets and countertops when planning your aging-in-place remodel.
7. Ramps
A ramp placed at your home’s entry doors can benefit a family member on a wheelchair. Even if there is no one using a wheelchair, you can still add it for family members who are unsteady on their feet or have balance issues. Instead of stairs, which can make going up and down difficult, ramps give them more independence on movement.
If you need home improvement services for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance to age in your home or to accommodate a family member in a wheelchair, let STL Design and Build help. Count on our team to consider your needs and requirements to make aging in place easier and more comfortable. Call us now at (314) 736-5800, or fill out our contact form for an appointment.