Author: Brian December 12, 2021

Guest Post by Sarah Bellamy

Some retirees may decide that ageing in place is the right option for them.

This involves staying in the family home, rather than downsizing or relocating to another area.

There are several reasons why you may wish to stay living in the home you know.

This may include the fact that it’s a familiar space, your social network in the area, or simply that you enjoy having the extra space.

For those looking to free up some cash to live a more comfortable life in retirement, there are financial options available.

One such option is equity release.

Equity release allows you to borrow money against the value of your home, without having to sell up and move.

This is one way to access some extra cash while still living in your home.

Of course, there are a number of things to consider before deciding whether equity release is right for you.

If you decide to stay in the family home, you’ll most likely want to make a few modifications to ensure the space is safe as you age.

Below are 5 home modification tips that you may like to implement in your home.

Remove the bathtub

Those that have a bathtub and shower combined might like to consider removing the bathtub and replacing the system with a simple walk-in shower.

As we age, bathtubs can become more difficult to step in and out of, and with the combination of water it can become slippery and dangerous.

Not only is a walk-in shower safer, but it can be more comfortable, especially as you get older.

Install handrails

Adding handrails in the bathroom and around the home is a great way to provide extra stability and something to grab onto if you lose your balance.

These are especially important if you have limited mobility.

Handrails can be installed in a number of places, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms, so be sure to discuss your needs with a professional.

Increase lighting

One thing that often becomes more difficult as we age is seeing clearly.

This can be especially challenging at night or in darker rooms.

You can combat this by increasing the lighting in your home, which can be done with both indoor and outdoor lighting.

For example, you may like to consider an outdoor motion sensor light so there is no risk of coming home to a dark space after sunset.

You might also like to place lamps in key areas, such as bedrooms and living rooms.

Install a stairlift

If you’re finding it difficult to navigate the stairs, consider installing a stairlift.

A stairlift allows you to simply sit and be transported up the wall.

This will help you get up and down the stairs with ease, without having to worry about losing your balance or making the steps yourself. You’ll likely need to call in anspecialist to help you with the installation.

Replace shaggy carpet

Shaggy carpet can be a tripping hazard as we age.

Replacing the shaggy carpet with a hard surface such as wood or tiles can help to prevent trips and falls.

Not only will this be safer, but it can also be easier to clean and maintain.

If you want to keep carpet in your home, consider installing one that has shorter fibres as this should make it less of a fall hazard.

Widen doors

If you require a wheelchair or mobility scooter to get around, you may like to consider widening the doorways in your house.

This will make it easier for you to access rooms throughout the home while using your mobility device.

There are a few different ways that doors and doorways can be widened, and consulting with a contractor can help you to learn what modifications can be made to your home.

These are just a few home modification tips to help you age in place.

Making these modifications to your home can ensure that you’re able to live in the space safely and comfortably as you age.

Be sure to discuss your needs with a professional so they can provide tailored advice that will work best for you and your family.