As we age, the chances of a fall become more likely. According to the National Institute on Aging, one in four people aged 65 years or older fall each year. The good news is that you can prevent accidents with home modifications that complement your changing needs.
Interior handrails offer stability as you navigate stairs, hallways, bathrooms and other areas of your home and reduce the risk of a fall or accident. You can take your time moving from room to room and even stop to rest, giving you more confidence and independence at home.
Let’s look at the benefits of interior handrails for aging in place, different types and materials, and where you can have them installed in your home.
Benefits of Interior Handrails for Older Homeowners
When a person is about to fall, their first reaction is to look down, and then they try to grab something nearby. Handrails are important because they promote safety by ensuring you have something to grab if you need it.
Interior handrails provide the following benefits:
- Create a safer and more accessible living space
- Help you maintain stability while navigating the home
- Reduce the likelihood of falls and other accidents
- Increase home value with aging-in-place home modifications
- Improve home design and interior aesthetic
- Offer peace of mind for elderly homeowners and their loved ones
Interior Handrails Types and Materials
Let’s explore the types of handrails you can have professionally installed at home.
Wooden Handrails
This classic choice works with various interior styles, from traditional to contemporary. Wooden interior handrails can be composed of oak, maple, cherry or mahogany, offering different options that match your home decor.
Metal Handrails
Metal handrails are made of stainless steel, aluminum or wrought iron, providing a modern and sleek look. These materials are corrosion-resistant and require little maintenance.
Glass Handrails
With a contemporary and minimalist aesthetic, glass interior handrails create a sense of openness and transparency. They are typically made of tempered glass and supported by metal or wooden posts.
LED Light Handrails
LED lighting provides safety and design benefits. Built-in lighting illuminates the walkway, making it easier to see and grip the handrail, especially at night or in low-light spaces.
Built-In Storage Handrails
Some interior handrail designs feature built-in storage compartments or shelves. A clear walkway enhances the safety of your home. You can declutter your space and store keys, bags or decorative accents in this creative type of handrail.
Where to Install Interior Handrails at Home
The best place for interior handrails is where a fall is most likely to occur. Staircases, slippery bathroom or kitchen floor, and spaces with uneven surfaces are the most common areas for handrails. You can also install them in your garage, basement or hallways.
You can customize interior handrails to coordinate with your existing decor. Handrails come in a variety of colors and finishes, ensuring they complement your home’s design aesthetic and enhance the overall appearance.
Quality Home Modifications With Havenside
Interior handrails are important home modifications for aging in place. With a professional installation, you can have peace of mind from accidents and falls, creating a more pleasant living space for you and your loved ones.
At Havenside, we understand the desire to remain independent in your home and want to help you do it safely. Our team is ready to be your trusted partner through the home renovation process, from pinpointing the right solutions for you to the final construction walk-through.
Contact us to learn more about aging-in-place home modifications.