Whether it’s your preference or budget, being able live independently to age in place is a choice that many seniors would like to have. Fortunately, it’s entirely possible through home renovation in Aurora that incorporates the features that ease daily living, like the following:
Throughout the House
1. Lever hardware for the doors. It’s easy to push a doorknob lever than twist a round doorknob, especially for arthritic hands.
2. Rocker light switches. These types of switches have a large surface area and offer little resistance when touched.
3. Motion sensor lighting in hallways and baths. Not only do motion sensors increase safety, they also cut energy bills because the lights automatically go out after a few minutes of stillness. They’re a must to include in home renovation in Aurora, even for younger families.
4. Touchless faucets. These faucets turn on and off with just the wave of a hand nearby. They’re more sanitary in kitchens and baths, since contaminated hands don’t touch any knobs or levers that can spread bacteria and viruses.
5. Elevated electrical outlets. Building codes specify how high electrical outlets or receptacles need to be above the floor, but as long as its placement falls in line with any guidelines you have to follow, like ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), higher is better for the aging population. Back problems are common, and the standard placement closer to the floor may be difficult or painful for the aging to access.
In the Bathrooms
6. Grab bars in the shower or bathtub and near the toilet. Grab bars provide stability and prevent falls in the bathroom, one of the most common types of injuries senior experience. The bars must be security fixed to the wall, and if you’re not experienced with this kind of installation, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
7. A curbless shower pan. A curbless shower pan eases access to the shower, making it accessible without having to lift a leg. The lack of step into the shower also makes it possible to use enter the shower using a walker or wheelchair.
8. Handheld showers. A handheld shower simplifies bathing while sitting on a bench, whether it’s built into the shower or as waterproof chair specially made for bathing.
9. Anti-scald valves. Anti-scald valves control the water temperature and prevent painful skin burns.
10. Nonslip floors. While rugs absorb water, use caution about the kind you use on the floor near the shower. It shouldn’t have a fringe and should have a nonslip backing. When choosing flooring materials, select one with a nonslip surface to reduce the chances of falling.
In the Kitchen
11. Smart appliances. To the extent possible, opt for appliances that use monitoring technology. It’s so easy to forget something is in the oven or on the stove. If you’re comfortable with smartphones and other devices, such technology can save you steps and give you peace of mind.
In the Bedroom
12. A first floor bedroom, stair lift or elevator. Stairs present challenges and it’s much easier to age in place when there’s a bedroom and bathroom on the main living level, or access to a second floor bedroom is automated. A home renovation in Aurora that involves any of these changes does cost, but in the long run, it may enable you to spend years longer in your home with all the benefits it affords you.