As you get older, there comes a point when you might decide it’s time to start adapting your home for ageing. Certain adaptations will make your home safer and more comfortable to live in. It can mean you can remain independent for longer and not have to move into a care home. Let’s be honest most adults want to stay in their own home. It’s likely its where they have lived for a considerable time, raised their families, and are surrounded by wonderful memories. Life is still for living when you grow older you just need to make a few changes in the interests of your personal safety.

Home Lift

If your steps are getting harder to climb, then a home lift might be a worthwhile investment. However, getting a home lift installed is quite a large adaptation for your home. Companies like Axess 2 Home Lifts offer free design consultations so you can see what is possible before facing any initial outlay.

Ramps

For wheelchair users installing a ramp to get into your home will help you remain independent. Otherwise accessibility to your home will become a real issue. You can get portable ramps if you do not want to install a more permanent ramp.

Grab Rails

If you have mobility issues grab rails can help you stand up or ease into your seat. They can help you keep your balance as you move around your house. Especially in areas you could easily lose your footing like in the bathroom or on the stairs. Once you reach your eighties the chance of falling becomes much higher so grab rails will hopefully reduce the odds of taking a tumble.

Installing A Personal Alarm System

You can have a personal alarm system installed. Which means you can get help if you need it. For example, if you fall you can use the alarm to notify someone to come and assist you. Apparently falls are the highest reason for hospital admissions in the over 65’s. This is quite a worrying statistic, especially when I consider my parents are in their mid-seventies.

Security

As you get older you might feel more vulnerable living at home. You can look at improving security in your home. Popular investments are adding outside lights, a security camera, and an intercom system.

Before adapting your home for ageing check to see if you can get any help with funding. There may be local authority funding you are entitled too to help you remain living independently in your home.

The NHS suggests applying for a home assessment. With this an occupational therapist will arrive at your home and see what adaptions would be beneficial for your needs.