Safety Enhancements

Incorporating a few safety enhancements into your environment can help you avoid injuries and let you feel more confident at home.

Preventing Falls

Changes in muscle strength, as well as certain illnesses and medication side effects, put seniors at an increased risk of falling. Every year, about 1 in 4 seniors falls, making them vulnerable to serious injuries. Along with improving mobility and flexibility, thoughtful modifications can reduce the risk of falling and breaking a bone, letting many older adults avoid long-term health problems and disabilities.

Bathroom Modifications

• Install grab bars near toilets and in showers.
• Use nonslip mats or textured flooring.
• Put in walk-in tubs and roll-in showers.

Staircase Adjustments

• Install handrails on both sides.
• Add nonslip treads or contrasting colors.
• Incorporate stairlifts into homes with multiple levels.

Lighting Improvements

• Place motion-sensor lights in hallways and near staircases.
• Ensure bright, evenly distributed lighting throughout living areas.
• Plug in nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways.

Fire and Emergency Preparedness

‍Regardless of age, anyone can experience a house fire. However, seniors with impaired vision, hearing and sense of smell may be at a disadvantage when it comes to responding promptly to danger. For that reason, it’s important to take extra precautions when creating a safe environment for aging in place.Some sensible fire and emergency preparedness solutions include:

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with audible and visual alarms
• Fire extinguishers in easy-to-reach places
• Emergency alert systems, such as pendants and smart home integrations

Accessibility Upgrades

‍Most homes aren’t designed with mobility aids in mind. Narrow hallways and doorways, stairs and even light switch placement can all become hassles for those who are suddenly reliant on walkers or wheelchairs. Adding mobility-friendly features and modifications lets seniors keep their homes comfortable and practical.

‍Mobility-Friendly Features

• Install exterior and threshold ramps for wheelchairs and walkers.
• Widen doorways to accommodate mobility aids.
• Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs and decorative items.
• Replace flooring with smooth, hard surfaces such as vinyl, laminate or low-pile carpet.

Kitchen and Bathroom Accessibility

• Put in adjustable-height sinks and countertops.
• Install lever-style faucets for easier use.
• Make storage spaces more accessible with pull-out shelves and lazy Susans.

Bedroom Modifications

• Replace a standard bed frame with an adjustable model to assist with getting in and out.
• Modify closets by lowering hanging rods and shelves.

Comfort and Convenience Features

‍Thanks to today’s technology, homeowners have access to a variety of smart home features that automate certain everyday activities. From cleaning to turning off lights, these upgrades make it easier to live independently.

‍Smart Home Technology

• Voice-controlled devices for appliances, lights and thermostats
• Video doorbells
• Automated smart locks
• Automated blinds
• Robot vacuums and mops

Climate Control

• Replace windows with energy-efficient models to help maintain indoor temperature.
• Install easy-to-read programmable thermostats.

Personalization for Cognitive and Emotional Needs

‍For some older adults, living alone can contribute to loneliness, while changes in cognitive functioning can cause confusion. Fortunately, seniors can adjust their environment to accommodate their cognitive and emotional needs.

‍Design for Cognitive Impairments

• Label storage containers and use a color-coding system for easy identification.
• Opt for devices and appliances with streamlined, simplified controls.
• Eliminate clutter and organize closets and storage spaces.

Enhancing Emotional Well-Being

• Design relaxing spaces with comfortable furniture and natural lighting.
• Decorate with family photos and personal mementos.
• Add indoor plants for a calming environment.

Financial and Planning Considerations

‍While home modifications are a smart choice for older adults, they can be a costly investment. According to one home remodeler, the national average cost for aging in place renovations ranges from $3,000 to $15,000. In addition to the up-front investment and time commitment, many modifications can impact a home’s marketability for future buyers.

Home modifications let many seniors remain in their homes longer, but they have their limitations. Multilevel floor plans, uneven surfaces and tight layouts can affect how easily you navigate your home, even with helpful modifications. It can be challenging to find reliable contractors who specialize in senior-focused designs, and project budgets can quickly balloon with the cost of labor and materials.

Before committing to extensive home renovations, it’s important to weigh the short- and long-term financial impact. For many Fort Worth, Texas, seniors, transitioning to an environment designed with mobility and safety in mind is the more convenient solution.

‍Find Age-Friendly Accommodations at Bethesda Gardens Fort Worth

‍At Bethesda Gardens Fort Worth, we feature a single-story layout with zero-step entrances, open floor plans and safety features and enhancements. Along with that, our community has a 24-hour emergency call system for added peace of mind, giving residents a balance between privacy and help when needed. Residents can enjoy an environment that's planned around their needs, helping them stay comfortable and independent. Contact us today to learn more about how we support safety and self-reliance throughout retirement.