Home Remodeling For Seniors:

Most seniors prefer to remain in their own homes for as long as is possible.

To help make that possible, home remodeling may be the answer for seniors. What are some of the things that can be modified in an existing home?

- Modifying a bathroom to have railings so seniors have something to grab should they lose their balance.
- Reconfiguring a shower, so there is no “step over” for the senior to trip over is helpful.
- If removing and replacing the step over is too costly, another idea is to cover the shower floor with a cedar wood cover that is level with the step.
- Placing a cedar chair in the shower so your senior has something to sit on. This should be stabilized.
- Glass doors can become too heavy for seniors to pull open over time. Replacing a glass shower door with a shower curtain, may prove easier.
- Replace flip light switches with rocker switches so a senior’s arthritic hands can more easily turn off and on lights.
- Replace round doorknobs with lever door handles makes it easier for seniors to grasp.
- Any steps should be lighted to make them easier to see. Rope lighting can work for this. Simply place it under the lip of any step.
- Doorbells can be both sound and light — so that if either hearing or sight is a problem, an alternative is available.
- Good lighting throughout the home is essential. Older eyes have trouble adjusting to changes in light levels.

Home remodeling for seniors presents unique and specific challenges. Moveseniors.com is one resource you can check with for professional consultation. You may also try your local Area Agency on Aging for referrals.

The key is finding someone who is familiar with the needs of seniors. The last thing you need is a contractor who isn’t aware of these needs and wants to argue.