Preparing Your Home For Aging in Place
Most adults want to stay in their homes as they grow older. It makes sense – it is where we feel most comfortable, where we make our memories, and where we keep our treasured possessions. With certain home modifications and proper planning, we can help our customers in Atlanta, and the surrounding areas start their aging in place journey!
What does aging in place mean? The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines aging in place as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.”
For Ponce Design Build, aging in place means helping our customers live their best life, in their own homes. Many decisions go into the planning and preparing for aging in place – very personal financial and social decisions. We recommend taking your time and a realistic look at your finances and talk seriously with your family and trusted advisors. Once you’ve decided that you will spend your golden years at home, the work begins to prepare your home, finances, and yourself.
Ramps and Lifts Instead of Stairs
How many stairs do you have to climb daily? Steps in and out of your home, split level rooms, and stairs to the bedroom can eventually become a mobility issue. From installing a ramp for easy entry to lifts and elevators, eliminating the need to go up and down stairs can help make aging in place easier.
Handrails and Grab Bars
Adding strong handrails along stairs and grab bars in bathrooms can help you keep your balance on the move and get up from a seated position.
Knobs to Levers
Change doorknobs and kitchen cabinet knobs from pulls to levers that are easier to grip.
Bright Lighting
Dim lighting can make it hard to see not only what you’re reading but also where you’re walking.
Walk-In Showers
Aging in place bathroom design is critical to your comfort and ability to stay in the home. A walk-in shower that can accommodate a wheelchair is key to having a beautifully designed functional bathroom prepared for any future mobility issue. There are many other ways to make your bathroom accessible, and we can help!
Fall Prevention
According to the National Council On Aging (NCOA), falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. Bright lights, eliminating steps, and adding grab bars are the first steps in preventing falls. More ideas to prevent falls include:
- Keep space clear
- Wear anti-slip footwear
- Remove clutter
- Motion-activated lighting
- Remove rugs
- Widen hallways
- Stay physically active
- Talk to your primary care doctor about your fall risks.
Talk With Us About Aging in Place in Atlanta, GA
It may not be obvious what changes and modifications need to be made to your home to work for your life and future. That’s why it is imperative to talk with trusted advisors and accessibility-trained contractors, like those at Ponce Design Build, who have experience in aging in place.
Ponce Design Build is the premier design/build firm for home remodeling, additions, and home adaptation/modifications in the Atlanta area. Our approach to contractor services puts you, the client, front and center for the entire process. We meet with you to discuss your needs, preferences, and budget to create a plan that will meet your total satisfaction. Please call (404) 734-7343 or contact us online for a free consultation.