Kitchen Design
Designing your kitchen to suit your needs as you age is very important, especially if you like cooking. It is a good idea to make the flooring in your kitchen a top priority when making the necessary modifications. Incorporating softer flooring will make it easier for you to stand, and your joints won't be so stressed. You can opt for anti-fatigue floor mats, but go for the ones that are non-slip and have no curl. If you rely on a walker or wheelchair to move around, investing in an island on wheels can work well when creating clearance for your mobility aids. Also, consider improving lighting in the high-use areas of the kitchen. You can add under cabinet lighting in order to illuminate dark work areas, plus adding task lighting will reduce the risk of accidents when doing chores in the kitchen.
Bathroom Design
According to the National Institute on Aging, 80% of falls by seniors over age 65 happen in the bathroom. Bathrooms can be a dangerous place for many aging seniors, but there are many ways to make them safer and more comfortable. If you need assistance in the bathroom, you can bring assisted living services to your house by enlisting the help of a caregiver, who will assist you with bathing, dressing, washing and other activities. This way you will reduce the risk of you having accidents in the bathroom. Also, in order to boost safety, there are some modifications that have to be made. Consider getting rid of the tub, and install a walk-in shower, which eliminates the need to step over the tub and provides easy access. It may also help to install a removable showerhead for easier maneuverability. If a walk-in shower isn't feasible, you can always use a transfer bench, which will help you to get in and out of the bathtub safely. Adding grab bars on the bathroom walls can help in preventing falls. However, they will only handle your weight if they are installed properly into the studs of the wall. While these changes may be helpful, they can also be expensive for some seniors. Paying for a caregiver and doing renovations can cost thousands of dollars. In case of financial difficulties, you can enroll for Medicaid, which will also cover nursing home care should you require it, and depending on the state, even the house renovation costs.
Rearrange Your Living Room
As you age in place, you will need all the space that you can get in your living room. You can create a simple furniture arrangement by clearing unnecessary or dangerous furniture. For example, a coffee table with legs that curve outwards can easily cause a trip. If you rely on a walker, cane or any other mobility aid, you need to create safe pathways in your living room. Low furniture such as stools and ottomans can be a headache, as they may hinder your movement, and can easily get stuck on walkers and other devices as they go by. So remove anything that you don't need, and be sure to clear any clutter that builds up.
Implementing the above ideas can make a huge transformation to your home. You will be able to live comfortably, and stay independent for as long as possible.