Home Modifications for Seniors Aging in Place in Plymouth & Maple Grove, MN (Actionable Guide)
As we age, our homes often require some changes to maintain a safe, comfortable, and supportive living environment. For many seniors in Plymouth, Maple Grove, and the surrounding Minnesota communities, home improvements and modifications can enhance mobility, accessibility, and independence while aging in place. Identifying the most practical and cost-effective home modifications for aging in place can be overwhelming to some seniors. In this blog, we will highlight some of the best home improvements for aging in place and help you make more informed decisions about your home modifications.
Here are some home safety modifications that can significantly improve the everyday lives of seniors. Before we delve into the list, did you know that TruBlue can assist with most of the aging in place home improvements on this list?
Give us a call to learn more at 763-400-3748.
The senior home modifications in this post were completed by our team.
Now on to our list.....
Bathroom Modifications for Seniors Aging in Place
Bathrooms can present significant challenges for seniors due to their hard and slippery surfaces, which can increase the risk of falls. However, there are senior home safety modifications that can be made to enhance safety and accessibility for seniors in bathrooms:
Grab Bars
Installing grab bars strategically in key areas of the bathroom, such as near the toilet and in the shower, provides seniors with additional support and stability. These bars can assist in standing up from the toilet or maintaining balance in the shower. Choose a reputable brand that meets ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements for weight capacity and durability.
Non-Slip Flooring
Replacing slippery tiles with non-slip flooring can be a game-changer. Non-slip tiles or mats can be used to cover existing surfaces, providing better traction and reducing the likelihood of slipping.
Walk-In Tubs or Roll-In Showers
Traditional bathtubs can be difficult for seniors to access. Walk-in tubs or roll-in showers with low thresholds offer a more accessible bathing option. These home safety modifications eliminate the need to step over high edges, reducing the risk of a senior tripping.
Raised Toilet Seats
Seniors may find it challenging to lower themselves onto standard toilet seats. Installing raised toilet seats makes it easier for them to sit down and stand up, promoting independence and preventing strain.
Adjustable Shower Heads
Installing adjustable shower heads allows seniors to customize the water flow and direction, making it more convenient for them to use the shower while sitting or standing.
Adequate Lighting
Good lighting is crucial for seniors. Ensure that the bathroom is well-lit, and consider adding motion sensor lights to illuminate the space automatically when someone enters.
Accessible Storage
Make sure that essential items are within easy reach. Install shelves and storage at a reachable height to minimize the need for seniors to stretch or bend over.
Contrast and Color
Use contrasting colors for important elements like grab bars, toilet seats, and flooring to aid individuals with low vision. This helps seniors distinguish between different surfaces and features.
Emergency Response Systems
Consider installing emergency response systems in the bathroom. These systems can be activated in case of a fall or emergency, ensuring that help is readily available.
Bedroom Night Lights
Installing night lights in the bedroom is crucial, as 26% of all falls occur in this space. Place night lights strategically, focusing on pathways to the bathroom or other commonly accessed areas during the night. This helps seniors navigate their bedroom without the risk of tripping or stumbling.
Kitchen Modifications for Seniors Aging in Place
Creating a safe and comfortable kitchen environment for seniors aging in place involves thoughtful modifications that cater to their specific needs and challenges. The kitchen is a central hub for daily activities, and adding a few modifications can significantly enhance the overall quality of life for seniors.
Drawer Handle Modifications
Consider adding C or D-shaped drawer handles to make it easier for seniors to grasp and pull. These handles provide a more ergonomic design, reducing strain on arthritic hands and promoting ease of use.
Kitchen Countertops
Installing kitchen countertops at different heights can allow seniors to work comfortably both while sitting and standing. This flexibility accommodates varying mobility levels and ensures that kitchen tasks can be performed without unnecessary strain.
Sink Elevation
Elevating the sink can reduce the need for seniors to bend down when washing dishes. This modification minimizes strain on the back and promotes a more ergonomic kitchen layout.
Smoke Alarms
Ensuring that smoke alarms are working properly is crucial for kitchen safety. Regularly check and replace batteries in smoke alarms to guarantee that they provide timely alerts in case of any smoke or fire hazards.
Kitchen Shelves
Lowering shelves in the kitchen makes it easier for seniors to reach items without the risk of overreaching or using step stools. Keep frequently used items within easy reach to minimize the need for stretching or bending.
Temperature-Controlled Cookware
Investing in temperature-controlled cookware can be a safety measure to reduce the risk of fires. Automatic shut-off features and precise temperature controls prevent overheating and potential accidents, providing seniors with added peace of mind while cooking.
Non-Slip Flooring
Consider replacing or adding non-slip flooring in the kitchen to reduce the risk of slips and falls. This is especially important in areas where water or spills are common, such as near the sink or stove.
Kitchen Lighting
Ensure that there is ample lighting in the kitchen, especially in work areas. Proper lighting enhances visibility, making it easier for seniors to read labels, measure ingredients, and perform other kitchen tasks with accuracy.
General Home Modifications for Seniors Aging in Place
Ample Lighting
Extend the use of night lights throughout the entire house, paying special attention to pathways and corridors. Well-lit pathways reduce the chances of accidental falls, providing seniors with clear visibility during nighttime movements.
Wider Doorways
Opt for doorways that are 36 inches wide to facilitate easy movement from room to room. This modification accommodates mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs, offering seniors greater accessibility and freedom of movement within their home.
Lever Door Handles
Replace round door knobs with lever door handles. Lever handles are easier to grasp and manipulate, making it simpler for seniors with arthritis or limited hand strength to open doors effortlessly.
Rocker-Style Light Switches
Swap traditional toggle-style light switches for rocker-style switches. These switches are easier to use and require less effort to flip on and off. Choosing switches that glow in the dark provides additional visibility during nighttime, ensuring seniors can easily locate and operate them.
Closet Lighting
Illuminate usually unlit spaces such as closets by adding lighting fixtures. This helps seniors locate items more easily and reduces the likelihood of tripping or struggling to find things in poorly lit areas.
Remove Throw Rugs
Discard throw rugs around the house, as they pose a significant tripping hazard. Seniors can easily catch their feet on the edges of rugs, leading to falls. Removing these rugs or securing them with non-slip backing promotes a safer living environment.
Stairway Grab Bars
Installing grab bars along stairways can provide seniors with additional support and stability when navigating different levels of the home.
TruBlue Can Help with Senior Home Modifications in Plymouth and Maple Grove
At TruBlue Plymouth & Maple Grove, our goal is to empower seniors to maintain their independence at home through our dedicated senior home modification services. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by seniors, our team offers a comprehensive range of solutions to create safer and more accessible living spaces. From the installation of grab bars and ramps to the adaptation of bathrooms for enhanced mobility, we are here to help. Contact us today at 763-400-3748 to learn more about how we can assist you.