Aging in place is more than just staying in your home; it’s a commitment to maintaining your independence, comfort, and dignity as you grow older. For many adults and families, preparing a home for long-term living is not just a convenience; it is a vital part of future planning.
With thoughtful modifications and smart solutions, the place you’ve always called home can continue to support your lifestyle, mobility, and well-being for years to come. Whether you’re planning ahead for your own future or helping a parent or loved one, taking steps now to make your home aging-in-place ready can dramatically improve quality of life.
From improving accessibility to enhancing safety and comfort, small changes today can prevent accidents, reduce physical strain, and promote continued independence well into the future. Not sure where to start? The following checklist will help you to determine if your home is ready and what further steps you can take to enhance safety, accessibility, and comfort.
Entryways And Exterior Access
Your front door and outdoor access points are the first indicators of how aging-in-place ready your home really is. The following are a few things to consider:
1. Is there at least one step-free entrance to your home?
- If not, consider installing a vertical platform lift or wheelchair ramp.
2. Are outdoor walkways smooth, level, and have adequate lighting?
- Cracked pavement and poor lighting are common hazards that are frequently found in homes before you even enter them.
3. Is there a covered entry to protect against the weather?
- Staying dry and avoiding slippery surfaces is essential for a safe entry into your home.
4. Do doorways have lever-style handles rather than knobs?
- Lever handles are easier for individuals with limited hand mobility.
- You may also want to consider automatic door openers.
Safe And Accessible Bathrooms
Bathrooms are among the most dangerous places in a home, especially for older adults. To make your bathroom safe and aging-in-place ready, take the following into consideration:
1. Is there a walk-in shower or tub?
- These help to reduce the risk of trips and falls from occurring.
2. Are there secure grab bars in the shower and near the toilet?
- Properly installed grab bars offer support where it’s needed most.
3. Do you have a non-slip mat in the shower?
- Mixing water and tile is always a risky combination.
- Adding some non-slip mats to help provide traction and avoid slips and falls from taking place.
4. Is the sink accessible from a seated position?
- Wall-mounted sinks allow for better wheelchair access.
Kitchen Safety
Kitchens are high-use areas where functionality must meet safety.
1. Are countertops at a comfortable height for standing and seated users?
- Lowered counters or adjustable-height counters are best.
2. Are items stored in easily reachable places?
- Frequently used items should be in pull-out shelves or lower cabinets.
3. Is there proper lighting in all areas?
- Lighting reduces strain and increases visibility.
- Reduces the risk of anyone getting injured.
4. Are the stove-top and oven controls front-mounted?
- Front-mounted controls eliminate the need for anyone to reach over hot elements.
5. Do you have non-slip mats near the sink and stove?
- Water spills are a common fall issue that occurs in more than just the bathroom.
Living Room Comfort And Mobility
The living room is where many people spend their time, whether it be to lounge in front of the TV or settle down with a good book; it all should be done in a comfortable, safe, and accessible environment.
1. Is there a clear, wide space for movement, such as when using a mobility aid?
- Ensure walkways are at least 36 inches wide.
2. Are carpets and rugs secured to avoid tripping?
- Consider rug anchors to avoid anyone slipping.
3. Is the furniture stable and supportive?
- Chairs with firm seats and arms make standing up easier.
Bedroom Accessibility
1. Is the bed height suitable for safe transfers?
- Beds should allow feet to touch the floor while seated on the edge.
2. Is there a clear path from the bed to the bathroom?
- Install night lights or motion sensor lighting along the path for visibility even at night.
3. Are clothes and personal items easy to reach?
- Use low drawers and open shelving to reduce any strain.
4. Is there space for assistive equipment, like walkers or lifts?
- Ensure at least one side of the bed is fully accessible..
Stair Safety
If your home has any stairs, you will want to ensure that they are safe now and in the future to come.
1. Are stairways well-lit with non-slip mats?
- Good lighting and anti-slip strips reduce the chance of a fall.
2. Do you have handrails on both sides?
- Dual handrails offer more stability when climbing or descending the stairs in your home.
3. Is a stair lift or platform lift needed?
- A stair lift or vertical platform lift can make multi-level homes fully accessible to everybody.
Is Your Home Aging-in-Place Ready?
Preparing your home for aging in place is an act of care for yourself and for your loved ones. This guide should give a starting point for assessing how ready you and your home are for aging in place.
Quick Recap Checklist
- A step-free entry.
- Safe outdoor walkways.
- Grab bars.
- Raised toilet seat.
- Walk-in shower.
- Vertical platform lift or Stair lift.
- Night lights or motion sensor lights.
- Bed, furniture, and toilet seat at the proper height.
- Non-slip flooring or mats.
Ready To Take the Next Step?
Contact Advanced Mobility today for a home assessment or to explore customized mobility solutions tailored to your needs. Let us help you stay safe, confident, and independent.
At Advanced Mobility, we specialize in helping families across South Florida create safe, comfortable, and accessible spaces. Whether you need a pool lift, stair lift, vertical platform lift, grab bars, or a full home evaluation, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today at 954-888-9292 to start getting your home age-in-place ready today!