Seniors are a valuable group in society, but they have different needs and concerns as they age. One of the biggest concerns for aging individuals is falls and injury. As seniors age, they are more susceptible to injury.
While it isn’t possible to address every possible potential fall, there is one area where these concerns can be addressed more easily: the home. Many seniors are looking to age in place, or stay in their own home well into their golden years. In order for seniors to age in place safely, they need to modify a few areas to minimize fall risk.
Aging in place can involve other changes. Seniors who choose to stay in their homes should consider everything from safety features and changes to their homeowner insurance options. Finding the best homeowners insurance for seniors adds to functionality in their home and peace of mind.
Aging in Place
Seniors face a lot of changes and challenges as they age. One of the biggest changes is deciding where to spend their golden years. Some seniors decide to downsize or need more involved medical attention, so they move into assisted living facilities. Others decide to stay at home or age in place.
The decision to age in place is great. Seniors who remain at home can experience a level of comfort and security being surrounded by their things and memories. The concern, however, is the ability to function independently.
Fall Concerns for Seniors
A major concern for seniors who choose to age in place is the risk of falling and subsequent injury. Falls are a frequent occurrence. In fact, every year one in four senior adults will experience a fall. Some 60 percent of those falls happen while people are at home. It’s more than just a fleeting concern; it’s something to prevent at all costs.
Home Upgrades to Prevent Falls
When people think of falls, they often think of stairs. While stairs cause a lot of falls and injuries, they are not the only area of the home that pose a threat. There are a lot of smart devices and home upgrades to consider in the home as an individual ages.
Widen Doorways
Doorways pose potential fall risks. These types of falls are more common in individuals who use wheelchairs or walkers, but anyone can catch a toe or ankle while making a turn.
The best way to minimize the risk of falls associated with doorways is to widen them. Widening the doorways in a home can add additional clearance for mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs.
This can be a simple process, but it can become more costly or involved if it requires moving electrical or ductwork. It’s important to do your research or call in a contractor to ensure there aren’t any surprises.
Install Ramps
Stairs are a big concern for seniors. Even those who don’t use wheelchairs or walkers can stumble or trip while walking up and down stairs. Those outdoor stairs are the most concerning because of the added weather element.
For seniors who use wheelchairs, it might be necessary to add interior ramps. If the family home has multiple levels and stairs, they will need the added assistance of ramps to ensure they have full independence in their home.
Permanent structures can be installed both inside and outside but might require the assistance of a licensed contractor. There are, however, mobile ramp options that can be installed without a contractor.
Power Chair
While ramps are a great option to ensure independence for seniors, another option is a power chair. Power chairs can be installed both inside and outside as an alternative to stairs. These chairs allow for comfort and mobility without removing stairs or changing large structures in the home.
It’s a good idea to research the cost and working of power chairs before choosing them over other stair alternatives. The needs and budget of each individual should be considered before making a large purchase like a power chair.
Bathroom Modifications
Another area of the home that presents some fall risks is the bathroom. The bathroom requires a higher level of mobility. As a person ages, however, their mobility and stability lessen. It can become more difficult for a person to get in and out of a tub/shower combination. It can be more difficult for a person to sit down to relieve themselves.
These difficulties can lead to falls. To minimize those falls, a few changes can be made to make the bathroom safer for seniors. Grab bars can be installed near the toilet and the bathtub. These bars offer additional stability as a person moves around a bathroom.
It’s also a good idea to remove possible trip hazards like a bathtub. It can be difficult for a senior to step over the side of a bathtub to bathe or shower. These tubs can be removed and replaced with a walk-in shower for more safety.
The replacement of a bathtub is more involved than the installation of grab bars. If this is the best option, it’s a good idea to consider a few senior-friendly bathroom designs. These designs help remove any potential risks or hazards without sacrificing style or overall design.
Flooring Modifications
The type and condition of a home’s flooring can also be a concern. Shaggier or more worn-out carpet can get caught in wheelchair wheels or under a person’s feet. Other options, like hardwood, tile, or laminate, can be slippery and lead to falls.
It’s a good idea to evaluate high-traffic areas of the home and consider the potential trip or fall hazards. Each area can be considered and better flooring options identified. Whatever type of flooring material you consider, be sure to evaluate it for traction.
Home Insurance for Seniors
With so many decisions and considerations, it’s a good idea to reevaluate your home insurance policy. Many seniors are on fixed incomes, meaning high premiums and rates for home insurance can be a burden.
Fortunately, there are coverage options for seniors. These providers offer discounts and optional add-ons that can ensure long-term coverage for lower prices. This is particularly beneficial for seniors who decide to age in place.
As you make changes to the flooring, bathroom, and doorways, consider availing free home repair assistance from the government to help alleviate the costs. And don’t forget to update the home insurance policy so you can stay at home for many years to come.
Laura Gunn writes and researches for the insurance comparison site, ExpertInsuranceReviews.com. She is passionate about all people, no matter their age, knowing and understanding their home options.
