Modifications that can help you age at home – safely Most Australians want to age at home. Here’s what you may need to modify and how it could be funded.
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any older Australians want to continue to live in their homes, where they feel comfortable and are familiar with their surroundings, as they age. We’ve created a simple list of the most popular home modifications likely to be required.They can be a simple refurbishment or renovation depending on what needs to change in your home to help you live more independently.
Accessibility Ramps To make your home more accessible, installing a ramp to get in and out of your home will provide more freedom. You can enter and leave your home comfortably and it also provides access for those using a wheelchair.
Installing a medical alarm system in your home can offer peace of mind and the knowledge that if an emergency were to arise, the relevant services would be contacted, and help would be on the way. There are different models, so speaking with an expert can help you choose the right device for you and your home.
Make sure the lighting is adequate as eyesight generally deteriorates with age.
It can be a simple cost-effective and practical solution to enhance your mobility around your home. Ramps can generally be installed quickly and there are portable options that are lightweight and can be moved around as required. Widen doors Homes are generally built with standard size doorways. To move around more freely in a wheelchair within your home, doors should be widened if possible, to increase mobility and to make the home more accessible for anyone in a wheelchair. Adding night lights in hallways, and additional handrails will also help with ease of movement. Stair lifts Having stairs in your home can make moving around more difficult when you become older or have a disability. Installing a stair lift will help to relieve the stress and discomfort of having to climb the stairs. Stair lifts are generally called chair lifts and can usually be installed quite easily in your home without the need to make any structural building changes. 18
Medical alert systems
Smart devices Technology is always advancing and can be of great assistance. Smart devices are easy to use and many offer voice control to manage different features in your home, such as lights, calling friends and family, and listening to music.
Kitchen modifications When choosing to stay at home, you should think about how your home operates and the things that you may find more difficult in the future, if not immediately.The kitchen can be a dangerous place, so it is important to make some simple modifications to help you live as independently as possible. Flooring To help avoid any slips in the kitchen, upgrading your floor to a non-slip surface can help prevent a nasty injury from falling. Lighting Make sure the lighting is adequate as eyesight generally deteriorates with age. To prevent tripping over objects while trying to find the switch, ensure switches are easily reached and are positioned at the entrance to rooms. Everyday tasks such as cooking can be simpler and less stressful, by keeping your kitchen in order and making sure cabinets are organised. You should make everyday items accessible with good lighting, lower your benches and fix soft closers to cabinets and doors.
YourLifeChoices Retirement Affordability Index™ November 2021
