Growing older gracefully

As people age, often physical mobility can become impaired or restricted. For those who experience unwelcome changes in their physical abilities, the prospect of moving to a retirement community can be unpleasant and even frightening. Luckily, there are a number of modifications that can be made to existing homes to make them much more accessible for those with limited mobility. This can allow older homeowners a greater measure of independence and safety while remaining in familiar surroundings.

An article published in 2009 in The Gerontologist, "Residential Modifications and Decline in Physical Function Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults", provided evidence that certain home modifications can have significant effects on the mobility of older homeowners. The results of the study showed that with appropriate modifications to accommodate the physical limitations of older residents, the progress of physical debilitation could be slowed or, in some cases, arrested completely. This is good news for aging homeowners who want to remain in their homes. A few simple modifications can provide extra help when it's needed most.

Installing grab bars in the bathroom can be a good first step in creating an accessible home environment. Most falls occur in the bathroom, so adding bars to the side of the bathtub and a railing alongside the toilet can assist older people in standing up or extricating themselves from the bath. Non-slip mats or decals for the bottom of the tub are also useful in preventing falls. If the homeowner is confined to a wheelchair, the door to the bathroom should be widened to allow easy access. Another option is to add or remodel a walk-in shower. This eliminates the necessity for stepping over a raised bathtub edge and rising from a sitting position, and with appropriate non-slip coatings on the floor and grab bars on the walls, shower stalls can be convenient and safe alternatives to traditional bathtubs.

Ramps or chair lifts are a necessity for those who are confined to a wheelchair, but live in a multi-story home. While ramps are usually installed outside, chair lifts are becoming more and more popular for indoor staircases since they are becoming less expensive and can even be rented in some instances.

The kitchen is a special area of concern for mobility-challenged people. Countertops will need to be lowered to accommodate the needs of those confined to wheelchairs. Special kitchen appliances are available to allow accessibility; while these are sometimes expensive, grants are occasionally available to pay a portion of the costs. Another solution is to build a raised floor area around the countertops and appliances, raising the wheelchair to the appropriate level; this is a temporary measure, but can provide a great deal of independence for older adults who want to continue living in their own homes.

Adjustable beds, while technically not a home improvement, can be of great assistance to elderly homeowners by reducing the risk of falls and allowing optimal position for fragile older spines. A restful night's sleep can help prevent accidents by ensuring that older homeowners are alert and at their best mentally and physically.

Scientific studies have shown that the right home improvements can help aging homeowners stay healthier, happier, and more comfortable in their own homes. By staying more active and involved in life, older people can actually slow physical deterioration and maintain more independence and autonomy in their golden years.