As we age and Get Older, our needs and capabilities change. To continue living independently and comfortably in your home, it’s essential to make adjustments that accommodate the physical and practical changes that come with ageing.
The right modifications and additions can improve your quality of life, whether by reducing the risk of falls or making day-to-day tasks easier. Here are the key things you need in your home as you get older to ensure safety, comfort, and convenience.
Stairlifts for Homes with More Than 1 Floor
Curved or straight stairlifts are a great addition to your home if you struggle with mobility issues and want a simple solution to keep or regain your home independence. They are a safe and convenient way to access different levels of your home, regardless of your staircase design. When browsing your options, make sure to compare our options to find out which would be most relevant. Options include:
- Straight Stairlifts
- Tailor-made curved stairlifts
- Outdoor stairlifts
- Hinged-rail stairlifts
- Slimline stairlifts
- Stairlifts for pets
Grab Bars and Handrails for Safety
The risk of falls increases as we get older, especially in areas like the bathroom and on stairs. Adding grab bars and handrails to your home can massively reduce the risk of accidents.
In the bathroom, install grab bars next to the toilet, in the shower, and near the bathtub. These provide something to hold onto for added stability when getting in or out. Non-slip mats in the shower or bathtub are also important to prevent slips.
Handrails on both sides of stairs and in hallways make it easier to navigate without losing balance. If you don’t already have handrails, adding them to your stairs can be a simple but effective way to improve home safety.
Non-Slip Flooring
Slippery floors are one of the most common causes of falls in the home. Consider replacing slippery tile or hardwood floors with non-slip flooring materials, or add non-slip rugs or mats in high-risk areas. Non-slip vinyl or rubber flooring is a good option for bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways, where spills or wet conditions are more common.
If you prefer carpets, opt for low pile piles to reduce the risk of tripping. Ensure that all rugs have rubber backing to prevent them from sliding out of place. These small adjustments can help make your home safer and more secure.
Good Lighting in Every Room
As we age, our vision can decline, making it harder to see potential hazards in the home. Adequate lighting is essential to prevent accidents and help you move around with confidence. Install bright lights in key areas such as hallways, stairs, and bathrooms.
Consider adding motion sensor lights in corridors or near the front door so you don’t have to fumble for a switch in the dark. It’s also a good idea to add night lights in bathrooms, bedrooms, and along hallways so you can navigate your home safely during the night without turning on harsh overhead lights.
Walk-in Showers or Baths
The bathroom is one of the most dangerous areas in the home for elderly people. Slippery floors, high bathtubs, and hard-to-reach fixtures can lead to accidents. Installing a walk-in shower with a built-in seat and low entry can make it much easier and safer to bathe.
If you prefer baths, a walk-in bath with a low step or an easy-to-access shower might be a better option. Adding grab bars and a shower seat can also improve safety and comfort. For those with limited mobility, a raised toilet seat is a great addition to make it easier to sit and stand.
Accessible Storage and Organised Spaces
As we age, reaching high shelves and bending down to access low storage spaces becomes more difficult. Make sure your home is organised in a way that makes everyday tasks easier. Keep essential items like food, toiletries, and medications within easy reach—either at eye level or on lower shelves.
You can install pull-out drawers in kitchens, so you don’t have to bend over to access pots and pans. Consider getting extendable or adjustable kitchen cabinets to ensure you can reach everything without overexerting yourself.
Emergency Alert Systems for Peace of Mind
For seniors living alone, an emergency alert system is an essential addition and these systems allow you to quickly call for help if you fall or have a medical emergency. Many systems come with wearable devices, such as a pendant or bracelet, that you can press to alert emergency services or a loved one.
Some alert systems even include fall detection, which automatically contacts emergency services if it detects a fall. This type of system is particularly helpful for seniors who may not always be able to reach their phone or activate an emergency device themselves.
Ergonomic Furniture for Comfort
Comfortable furniture can make a big difference in how you feel at home, especially as you get older. Ergonomic furniture that offers support for your back, knees, and joints can prevent strain and discomfort.
Look for chairs, sofas, and recliners that have good lumbar support, are easy to get in and out of, and feature armrests. Adjustable beds can also be a good investment to make sure you have a proper sleep posture and comfort throughout the night.
Technology for Independence
Technology can help make daily life easier for older adults, from smart home devices to medical alert systems. Smart thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature in your home without getting up, while voice-activated assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Home can help with tasks like setting reminders or making phone calls.
For those with hearing or vision impairments, many devices can help improve accessibility, such as amplified phones, smart lighting, and alert systems that notify you when the doorbell rings or when someone is at the front door.
Why Are These So Important?
As we age, there are various reasons why we need additional facilities and features in our homes. Here’s how the above methods can help you:
| Method | Reason |
| Stairlifts | Difficulty climbing stairs increases fall risk |
| Grab bars | Reduced balance |
| Non-slip flooring | Slippery floors |
| Clear pathways | Mobility issues make clutter hazardous |
| Grab bars | Reduced balance |
| Emergency alert systems | Sudden health emergencies |
| Improved lighting | Vision decline |
| Accessible storage | Limited mobility can make reaching difficult |
| Ergonomic furniture | Joint pain makes sitting and standing uncomfortable |
| Walk-in showers | Stepping into a bathtub is risky with mobility issues |
| Smart technology | Memory loss complicates tasks |
Enjoy Your Home Safely
As you get older, your home should grow to meet all of your changing needs. From adding stairlifts and grab bars to installing non-slip flooring and good lighting, these adjustments can improve safety, accessibility, and comfort. If you make these changes, you can continue living independently in a home that supports your health and well-being.
Whether it’s a walk-in shower or an emergency alert system, there are many options available to help you age gracefully and safely in your own home. Make sure to consider your unique needs, and don’t hesitate to make modifications that will allow you to continue enjoying your home for many years to come.