Some of today's home improvement trends focus on aging in place as people are living longer and want to do so comfortably. That's why more homeowners are now renovating their bathrooms and kitchens to make them more accessible through pull-out shelves, hand bars, and lower sinks. Other features include smart technology, integration, and motion-sensor lights that reduce seniors' need to touch or reach for everything.
According to the Home Improvement Research Institute, the number of older adults living in nursing homes has declined as more are staying in traditional homes, but only 10% of these homes are ready for aging in place. Luckily, with increased demand and available technology, people can make the necessary upgrades long before they even need them.
What Senior Home Renovations Help Aging in Place?
Aging in place home modifications focus on:
- Bathroom safety
- Greater overall accessibility
- Kitchen upgrades
- Advanced lighting
- Smart technology
Small-scale renovations like motion-sensor lights improve senior safety by ensuring they always have well-lit areas, particularly on stairways, hallways, and bathrooms.
Larger renovations include upgrading to walk-in showers and walk-in tubs, along with nonslip flooring. Comfort-height toilets make it easier for seniors to relieve themselves without bending down too much.
Five Star Bath Solutions upgrades provide customers with easy-to-clean surfaces consisting of elegant stone or marble finishes, so seniors don't have to sacrifice style for comfort.
Smart technology, such as touchless faucets in kitchens and bathrooms, along with pull-out shelves, requires seniors to stretch and reach less. The technology further protects seniors through remote monitoring wearables that track their vital signs.
Plus, there are smart dispensers for medication management and security systems like Ring that enable seniors to verify visitors before answering.
Why Do Aging Population Home Trends Matter?
Having to go into a nursing home isn't the ideal situation for the elderly, as it can take them away from their comfort zone, and these facilities don't have the best reputation. Thanks to design and technology advancements and early modifications, any homeowner can upgrade their forever home to maintain independence and safety in their twilight years.
Additionally, upgrading a home is more cost-effective than a nursing home, and the right improvements can build equity.
Proper planning for aging in place can reduce the burden on other caretakers since remote monitoring systems reduce the need for constant in-person supervision. Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Nest provide reminders and allow seniors to do hands-free calling to remain socially connected with loved ones and quickly call for help when needed.
Age with Grace and Style at Home
Regardless of your current age, you can begin the process of aging in place by making small upgrades now. From motion-sensor lights to smart technology integration and accessibility features like handrails and pull-out storage, your home can gradually become a sanctuary that can make senior living stylish, fun, and easy.
Nursing homes don't have to be an automatic option for seniors who require a little more care, as renovated homes can increasingly provide seniors with independence and an ongoing connection to the world they need.
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This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.
