As people age, they have a great risk of health problems that make it difficult to carry out daily tasks. Basic home fixtures such as sink knobs can become impossible for seniors to use. If you really love your home and want to spend the rest of your life there, it is a good idea to go ahead and install age-friendly features while building or renovating the house. These 12 home furnishings make it easy for you to enjoy your home for decades.

Grab Bars

This simple railing makes it safer for seniors to move around without slipping and falling. Talk to your contractor about installing new designs that look sleek and elegant instead of seeming industrial and hospital-like.

Age in Place Bathroom
Photo by Glickman Design BuildMore traditional bathroom ideas

Curbless Showers

The new trend for showers that seamlessly transition from bathroom flooring into showers is perfect for the elderly. It makes it easy to get in and out of the shower without tripping.

Stair Railing

Sometimes it is impossible to avoid having different floor levels throughout your home. Make sure to include a railing or handle by any steps so that you will not trip and fall once you are older.

Benches in the Bathroom

A bench by the sink or in the shower will make it easier to use the device as you age. Having it installed by a custom home building company such as Alair Homes will make it look like a luxurious add-on instead of a disability aid.

Levering Sink Faucets

Arthritis tends to attack the joints of the hand and make it hard to turn multiple sink knobs in different directions. A basic sink lever handle is far easier to control.

Levering Door Knobs

Just like sink knobs, door knobs are also tricky for seniors to manage. Choose lever knobs instead of turning knobs to maximize ease of use.

Handheld Showers

These are ideal for older people who may need to sit down while showering, and even if it is not necessary, it is helpful to be able to direct the water flow.

Solosy Bathroom
Photo by Allied Kitchen and BathDiscover contemporary bathroom design inspiration

Pullout Drawers

Instead of shelves in pantries, closets, or cabinets, install shallow drawers that pull out. Not only are these just easier to use in general, but they keep seniors from having to strain their spine and knees.

Stair Lighting

A huge proportion of elderly accidents happen on the stairs. Having lights installed at the base of each step increases visibility and reduces the chance of tripping over a step.

Touchless Faucets

These sensor controlled faucets help you to use the sink without having to control any levers or knobs, so they are the best option for seniors with arthritis. They are also just a generally useful item to have at home, since you will not have to use dirty hands to operate the sink.

Elevators

This might seem like a luxury, but your knees and back will appreciate it even if you are not eventually wheelchair-bound. This option is particularly important if your home is more than one level.

Smart Appliances

Technological advances have made appliances extremely easy to use. Instead of traditional designs, pick ones that can easily be controlled through spoken commands and smartphone apps.