With the cost of long-term care skyrocketing, many people choose to bring their elderly parents into their own homes rather than setting them up in an assisted living facility. Also, we see people living in their homes much longer than before. So, if you wish to eventually retire there, you might want to start thinking about aging in place. Instead of waiting until the last minute, spread the expense and effort needed out over time by starting some home renovation projects right now.
Home Renovation for Aging in Place
Entryway
The entryway to most Tulsa homes includes a stair or two. When even a threshold makes forward movement difficult, this creates an obstacle for less physically able individuals. But you do not have to sacrifice curb appeal for functionality. Talk to a contractor about installing handrails and ramps to make entry into your home much easier.
Doorways
A standard interior door for most homes runs between 24″ and 32″ wide. Some homes may go up to 36″ wide. A wheelchair needs at least 36″ (if not more) of width to navigate easier. So, one home renovation idea to consider for aging in place is widening those doors if necessary.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a necessity for everyone. You may not realize how many hurdles those with physical limitations face here. Even something as small as the transition into a shower can be difficult. One home renovation that solves this is a curbless shower. A walk-in tub works well for someone who enjoys soaking in a nice hot bath regularly. Add grab bars on the shower walls and near toilets, too. Plus, you may want to install a higher toilet to make it easier to use.
Changing Up the Floor Plan
Finally, let us talk about the floor plan. Bulkier devices like walkers and wheelchairs require more room to maneuver. Wheelchairs need at least five square feet to move about freely. Your home renovation efforts should include making sure that hallways and room transitions include enough space to accommodate these mobility devices. Sometimes, something as simple as moving furniture around creates enough space. But you may end up needing to tear down or widen a wall here and there. Watch for tripping hazards like area rugs and electrical chords.
Does your Tulsa home include more than one floor? Make sure that a bedroom and a full bath are included on the main floor of your home. Also, a main floor laundry makes it easier for anyone with mobility issues to use.
When installing things like grab bars, widening doorways, and changing up wall configurations, you should hire a professional. Grab bars sound simple enough to install. But if not done properly, they could break free of the wall and cause harm to the person using them. It is better to be safe than sorry. Start now and tackle one job at a time. Eventually, you will be completely ready to age in place in your beloved home.
Lori Cain, REALTOR®, Serving Midtown and the greater Tulsa, OK area. Call 918-852-5036.
[…] that increase its value. Maybe it is time for a bathroom upgrade. Perhaps you need some renovations to help you age in place. (This is very popular with elderly buyers and younger homeowners who care for their elderly […]