Our needs may evolve as we get older, but that doesn’t mean we have to lose our sense of independence. There are some changes you can make to your home and routine to make sure you’re able to continue living safely and comfortably. Below are some helpful accommodations you may need to consider.
Upgrading Your Home
As seniors age, they may find that their home needs some upgrades in order to make it more comfortable and accessible. Here are some common home upgrades that can be beneficial for seniors.
- Install handrails and grab bars in key locations: Handrails in the bathroom or hallways can help seniors stay stable while they are moving around the house. If your shower does not have a handrail, you should hire a bathroom remodeling company to install one for you.
- Replace traditional light switches with motion-sensor switches: This will make it easier for seniors to turn on the lights, as they will not have to fumble with traditional switches.
- Install a ramp or stair lift: Ramps and stair lifts provide easier access to different areas of the home and can be especially helpful for seniors who have difficulty walking up and down stairs.
- Add a security system to the home: This can provide peace of mind for seniors and their loved ones, knowing that they are safe and secure in their homes.
These are just a few of the many home upgrades that can be beneficial for seniors. If you are a senior and are considering making some changes to your home, be sure to consult with a professional to find out what is best for you.
Getting Assistance With Daily Tasks
Many seniors may need special assistance with basic tasks such as bathing or dressing and may require transportation or housing arrangements. Several companies are now offering free rides for seniors through ride-sharing services, which can be a great help for those who are unable to drive or do not have access to reliable transportation. Try searching online for “uber free rides for seniors” to find a transportation service offering free rides for seniors in your area.
Some newer services specialize in assisting seniors with daily tasks such as running errands, grocery shopping, picking up prescription medications, and getting to and from medical appointments. Unlike home health aides, these services are available on-demand, any time of day, for seniors who don’t require live-in help.
Accommodating Changes in Your Abilities
Making a plan and following through with it is one of the most important things you can do to ensure that you continue living your life the way you want to. This is especially important as you age and may need accommodations due to changes in your abilities. Some common areas where people need accommodation as they age are in their ability to hear, see, and remember things.
It’s important to have your vision and hearing regularly checked as you age. If you are having trouble hearing, you may want to consider getting a hearing aid. If you are having trouble seeing, you may need to get glasses or contacts. It’s important to remember that hearing and vision problems are fairly common in every stage of life, and there’s nothing embarrassing about needing accommodations.
Finally, if you are having trouble remembering things, you may want to get an organizer or consider using labels on important items in your home. You can also talk with your health care provider about activities that improve cognitive function, such as word and memory games—many of which are now available as mobile apps.
Ultimately, it’s important to consider the accommodations you may need as you age to maintain a high quality of life. Making changes to your home and routine can help improve your ability to live independently and perform everyday tasks.