Around 90% of seniors plan to remain in their current home for the next five to 10 years. However, 85% of them believe they won't need to make any significant home improvements. To remain independent — and a little stubborn — they balk at the thought of installing a grab bar in their bathroom or a monitoring system. 

However, many don't realize how valuable these improvements can be in enhancing their quality of life and keeping them safe. What do some of these home improvements look like? 

1. In-Home Monitoring

One of the first renovations kids might make to their aging parent's home is to install an in-home monitoring system. Adding one of these systems is especially crucial as deadly falls in Americans 75 and older continue to rise. 

If an aging family member slips, monitors will sense it and send an alert to someone who can come and assist. Thus, these systems can increase injury response time and relieve worry. 

2. Curbless Shower

Walk-in showers sans curbs are also a practical home improvement. Removing the sides of tubs allows older people with limited mobility to step directly into the shower without risking a fall. 

During the renovation, you might enlarge the shower to 15 square feet so that you can add a bench or shower chair later. Additionally, it may be smart to include grab bars to assist in standing up and balancing in the shower.

3. Swimming Pool

While this home improvement may be a bit costly, if you have the money to install a pool, you certainly should. For older people, swimming can be incredibly therapeutic. It can relieve joint pain, improve cardiac function and increase blood flow to muscles. 

Swimming is often the only form of exercise the older generation can engage in, as weight-bearing activities may pose health risks. Thus, people with musculoskeletal disorders, stiff joints and limited mobility can benefit from a pool.

4. Wheelchair Ramp

Even if you don't use a wheelchair, installing a ramp now will ensure you can come and go freely if and when you do need one. Plus, walking up a ramp is much easier than stairs for many older people, especially those who rely on a cane or walker. 

Installing this element may minimize the risk of injury and make life easier all at once. 

5. Stairlift

Depending on where you live, installing a stairlift can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the features. Plus, professional installation — which is the safest and most reliable option — could tack another $2,000. 

However, if an older person can't walk up and down stairs anymore and can't afford to move, a stairlift may be the only option. Moreover, adding a system can prevent falls and relieve muscle soreness and joint pain. 

6. Wider Doorways

If doorways are narrower than 32 inches, you may need to widen them to accommodate wheelchairs, walkers and other mobility equipment. Compared to the previous improvements, this one is relatively affordable and will only cost a few hundred dollars. 

You’ll likely have to hire a contractor, though. They’ll often have to replace the frame, add insulation and drywall, move wires and repaint — jobs you should probably leave to the professionals.

7. Lever Door Handles

About 60% of adults over the age of 55 experience symptoms of arthritis. This painful condition can make it difficult for older adults to twist doorknobs and move about their homes. 

Thus, switching out knobs for lever handles can be a valuable home improvement, significantly relieving pain, and boosting the quality of life.

Start Remodels Early

When it comes to remodeling and renovating homes for older adults, one of the smartest things you can do for yourself and your loved ones is to start early. You'll want to make small improvements over time before anyone is in desperate need of them. There are many benefits to this approach, one being that it's easier on your budget. 

Moreover, making small but valuable improvements in this way will allow you and your family to choose design elements and fixtures that match the rest of the home. In doing so, you're more likely to maintain the flow of your style and create a cohesive space, even if there are different aspects to it. 

Author: Dylan Barlett

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