Aging in place is becoming an important issue among older homeowners. At Litchfield Builders, we help seniors stay in their own homes through smart home renovations. Below are 12 common upgrades that we perform for older citizens of the community.
Walk-In Bathtub
Bathing in a standard tub can be dangerous for older people who may have reduced coordination or who lack the strength to keep themselves balanced while stepping in and out of the tub. A walk-in bathtub enables an older person to bath on their own safely, without the threat of falling while getting in and out.
Stair Lift
Homes with two-stories are problematic for older people who have foot problems, knee problems, and other disabilities. Stair lifts allow older people who have difficulty walking up and down stairs to access the upper floors of their home.
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Ramps
Ramps are another important feature in a home where a person is otherwise wheelchair bound. Ramps enable homeowners to go up and down the stairs of their porch or deck, so they can get in and out of their house at will.
Curbless Shower
For homeowners who don’t use the bathtub much, a curbless shower is a more practical option. Curbless showers enable the homeowner to walk into and out of the shower without climbing or lifting their legs.
Taller Toilet
Squatting down to reach the toilet can be difficult for many older people. Taller toilets are easier to sit on, making it safe for older people to use the bathroom on their own.
Home Elevator
For someone who is wheelchair bound, a home elevator is a sensible alternative to a stair lift, which may require extensive maneuvering on the part of the user. Installing a home elevator enables a person who can’t walk at all to go upstairs to the second floor or downstairs to the basement.
Gas Fireplace Conversion
Cleaning out a wood-burning fireplace can be tricky for people who have problems with their knees. Gas fireplaces, however, don’t need to be cleaned out, which means that a homeowner can easily light and maintain a fire indoors.
Outdoor Path Installation
Walking on grass or mud can be dangerous for older people who have mobility problems. Installing an outdoor path on the property enables homeowners to reach parts of their yard that they might otherwise not be able to access.
Wider Doorways
For people in wheelchairs, narrow doorways can be a big problem. Some seniors who use a wheelchair to get around the house require wider doorways, especially for front and back exits.
Non-Slip Floors
High gloss tile floors and some hardwood floors can be dangerous because they’re slippery. Non-slip options like low pile carpeting are much safer for older homeowners.
Ground-Level Master Bedroom
Instead of installing a stair lift or an elevator, some seniors make their two-story homes more accessible by installing a ground-level master bedroom. This enables their home to be more functional for their purposes.
Proper Lighting
Proper lighting is important for seniors with poor eyesight. Installing many lighting options allows seniors to have just the right amount of light.
Get In Touch with Litchfield Builders
At Litchfield Builders, we help senior homeowners age in place by working with them to upgrade their homes and make them safer to use. To make an appointment for a quote, contact us today! If you're still deciding what type of remodeling you may need, download our free guide, How to Choose a Professional Home Remodeling Contractor.
