As we age, most of us want to maintain our independence for as long as possible. For many people, that means aging in place or continuing to live in their own homes rather than moving into assisted living or a nursing home.
Aging in place can be a great option for seniors who are healthy and active enough to live independently. But it’s not without its challenges. Here are some do’s and don’ts of successful aging in place from the perspective of Design Build Remodeling Group of Maryland, home remodeling contractors in Bethesda, MD, who have experience helping seniors create safe and independent living spaces in their homes.
Don’t: Forget to Do Your Research About Seniors Living Alone
Just because you’re aging in place doesn’t mean you should go it alone. There’s a lot of research about seniors living alone, and it’s essential to read up on the subject so you know what to expect and how to plan for the challenges you might face. For example, did you know that seniors who live alone are at a higher risk for social isolation and loneliness? It’s vital to be aware of this and to take steps to prevent it, such as staying active and connected with your community.
Do: Take Advantage of Technological Tools
There are a lot of great technological tools out there that can help seniors age in place safely and independently. For example, there are medical alert systems that can be worn as a necklace or bracelet you can use to call for help if you fall or have a medical emergency. You can also use home automation systems to control your home’s lights, thermostats and security systems from your smartphone. With appliance upgrades and kitchen remodeling for your home, you can transform your kitchen into a “smart” kitchen that can pretty much run itself. These kinds of technology can give you peace of mind as you age in place.
Do: Make Sure Your Home Is Safe for Independent Living
One of the most important things you can do when aging in place is to ensure your home is safe for independent living. That means taking a close look at your home and making any necessary changes or repairs to make sure it’s safe for you to live there independently. For example, if you have stairs in your home, you might want to install a stairlift or handrails to make it easier and safer to get up and down. Or if you have a bathroom that isn’t very accessible, you might want to remodel it so that it is.
Don’t: Forget to Think Through the Finances
Aging in place can be an excellent option for seniors who wish to maintain their independence, but it’s important to think through the finances before you make the decision. For example, if you own your home, you’ll need to think about how you’ll pay for any necessary repairs or modifications. And if you rent your home, you’ll need to make sure your lease allows for any modifications you might need. It’s also important to consider how you’ll pay for ongoing maintenance and upkeep of your home as you age.
Do: Make a Plan for Transportation Around Town
If you’re aging in place, you’ll need to think about how you’ll get around town. That might mean having a plan for public transportation, arranging for rides from friends or family, or using a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft. It’s important to have a plan to stay active and connected with your community.
Don’t: Forget About a Social Life
Just because you’re aging in place doesn’t mean you have to go alone. It’s important to stay connected with your community and to have a social life. There are many great ways to do this, such as joining a club or group, taking classes, or volunteering. Staying social will help you stay active and engaged as you age and can also help prevent loneliness and isolation.
Do: Work With a Home Remodeling Contractor With the Right Experience
Aging in place can be an excellent option for seniors who want to maintain their independence, but it’s not something you should try to do without help. It’s crucial to work with a home remodeler, such as Design Build Remodeling Group of Maryland who has experience creating safe and independent living spaces.
We are new addition contractors that help Bethesda, MD, homeowners with renovations. We can help you make the necessary changes or repairs to your home so that it’s safe for you to live there independently. We can also help you plan for the future and ensure your home is set up so that it will be easy to maintain as you age. Contact us today at (443) 300-2268 to learn more about how we can help you age in place at home.
