Home safety becomes increasingly important as we age. Everyday tasks like walking up and down the stairs or stepping out of the shower might seem effortless today. Over time, these areas can become dangerous for older homeowners.
While more than half the population plans to age in place, a report from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that only 10% of American homes are suitable for aging people, meaning they have a step-free entryway, a first-floor bedroom and bathroom and at least one bathroom accessibility feature.
Luckily, making changes to your home can be easy when you have the right team. An aging-in-place specialist can help you plan and implement modifications to keep your independence and age where you feel most comfortable.
Who Is an Aging-in-Place Specialist?
An aging-in-place specialist is your home improvement partner from start to finish. They listen to your needs and preferences and make suggestions based on your budget and lifestyle. An aging-in-place specialist:
- Guides you through the home modification process and keeps you informed
- Helps you make important decisions to ensure your long-term safety and well-being
- Solves problems and navigates you through possible home improvement challenges
Key Areas to Enhance Home Safety
Which areas need to be modified to enhance safety and accessibility? Focus on where an accident is most likely to happen. An aging-in-place specialist can help you make safe, stylish and functional changes.
Bathroom
Slips and falls are most likely to happen in the bathroom. Enhance safety by installing walk-in showers, grab bars, non-slip floors, height-adjusted vanities, sinks and toilets.
Kitchen
Homeowners can have better accessibility around the kitchen with lowered countertops, pull-out shelves and easy-to-reach cabinets.
Staircases and Entryways
Stairlifts, ramps, interior and exterior handrails and widened doorways can enhance the accessibility of your home.
Lighting
Improved lighting, such as motion sensors and contrasting color schemes, can create better visibility for visually impaired homeowners.
Working With an Aging-in-Place Specialist
When you work with a specialist, you can expect them to take the time to listen and create a customized plan to make your home safer and more functional.
Consultation
The first meeting can be a home assessment to discuss your needs, budget and timeline.
Customization
The aging-in-place specialist creates a tailored plan based on your mobility needs, health conditions and general preferences.
Implementation
A specialist collaborates with contractors through installation and ensures timelines and expectations.
Satisfaction Follow-Up
Your specialist checks in after the project is complete to ensure your satisfaction and accessibility around the home.
Benefits of Hiring an Aging-in-Place Specialist
Working with an aging-in-place specialist enhances your property’s safety and reduces your risk of injuries. Homeowners can live independently and their family and friends can feel peace of mind knowing their loved one is in a safe and accessible environment.
Home modifications can be less expensive than the costs associated with an assisted living facility. There are federal and state government programs that offer health and financial assistance to homeowners in need.
Trusted Home Improvement Partners at Havenside
The aging-in-place specialists at Havenside research, plan and oversee installations for home improvement and modification solutions. We offer a supportive process that ensures your independence and safety in a healthy living environment.
Give us a call today to see how we can help you.