If you have a loved one who is a senior, or if you are a senior yourself, it’s important to be aware of the many different types of home modifications that can be made to improve safety and accessibility. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common home modifications for seniors. We will also talk about how to tell if your home needs modification, and how to find a reputable contractor in your area.

Home Modification for Seniors

What modifications can be made to a home to make it more accessible and safe for seniors?

There are many types of home modifications that can be made to make a home more accessible and safe for seniors. Some common modifications include:

Widening doorways and hallways

One of the most common modifications that is made to homes for seniors is widening doorways and hallways. This can be helpful for seniors who use mobility devices such as walkers or wheelchairs, as it allows them to move around more easily.

Installing wheelchair ramps or stair lifts

Wheelchair ramps and stair lifts can also be installed in homes to make them more accessible for seniors. Ramps can be used to access the front door of a home, while stair lifts can be used to get up and down stairs.

Both of these modifications can make it much easier for seniors to move around their homes, and can help them stay in their own home for as long as possible.

Adding grab bars in the bathroom

Bathrooms can be one of the most dangerous rooms in a home for seniors, so bathroom safety modifications are crucial for older adults. Adding grab bars in the bathroom can help prevent falls and make showering easier. Grab bars can be placed in the shower, near the toilet, and even outside the tub. Our team can install grab bars that will allow you or your family member to continue living independently and provide you with peace of mind.

Lowering light switches and electrical outlets

For seniors who have difficulty reaching, lowering light switches and electrical outlets can be a great way to make their home more accessible. This simple modification can make it much easier for seniors to turn on lights and use appliances. Keeping independence in the home is important for seniors, and these types of modifications can help them maintain their independence for longer.

Making the home wheelchair accessible

If a senior uses a wheelchair, it’s important to make sure their home is wheelchair accessible. This may include widening doorways and hallways, installing a wheelchair ramp or stair lift, and making sure the bathroom is safe and easy to use. Making these modifications can help seniors live safely and independently in their own homes.

Adding bath benches

Another way to make the bathroom more accessible for seniors is to add a bath bench in the shower or tub area. This can be helpful for seniors who have difficulty standing for long periods of time, or who have balance problems. Bath benches also make it easier for seniors to wash themselves and avoid falls in the process.

Showerhead and faucet modifications

There are also many different types of showerhead and faucet modifications that can be made to make the bathroom more accessible for seniors. For example, installing a hand-held showerhead can make it much easier for seniors to take a shower. Adding a lever to the faucets can also help seniors who have difficulty turning them on and off. These simple modifications can make a big difference in the safety and accessibility of the bathroom for seniors.

Stair railings

Another common modification that is made to homes for seniors is the addition of stair railings. This can be helpful for seniors who have difficulty climbing stairs, or who are at risk of falling but do not yet require a stair lift. Stair railings can help provide support and stability, and can make it much easier for seniors to get up and down stairs. Making these types of modifications to a home can make it much safer and more accessible for seniors.

How do I know it is time to implement modifications?

If you are noticing that you or your loved one is struggling with activities of daily living or if they have had a recent fall, it may be time to consider making some modifications to their home.

Some other signs that it may be time to make modifications include:

• Your loved one is using more assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs
• They are having difficulty with stairs
• They are experiencing fatigue or pain when doing everyday activities
• They are having difficulty getting in and out of chairs
• They are having trouble reaching things

Making modifications to a home can be a big decision, but it is often worth it in the long run. These modifications can help seniors stay safe and independent in their own homes, and can make their day-to-day lives much easier. Remember, it is better to be proactive about making these changes rather than waiting until an accident happens. If you are unsure about what modifications to make, there are many resources available to help you decide. You can also talk to your loved one’s doctor or a home health care professional for more guidance.

How do I find a reputable contractor to perform home modifications for seniors in my area?

If you are looking for a contractor to perform home modifications, it is important to find one that is reputable and has experience with this type of work. You can start by asking for recommendations from friends or family members who have had similar work done. You can also look for contractors who specialize in home modifications for seniors. Once you have a few options, be sure to check out their testimonials online and ask them for references.

JW Home Improvement can guide you through the home modification process

As you can see, there are many different types of home modifications that can be made to make a home more accessible and safe for seniors. If you or someone you know is interested in making some changes to their home, be sure to talk to a professional about what would work best. With the right modifications, seniors can maintain their independence and live safely in their own homes for many years to come.

At JW Home Improvement, we have more than 70 years of combined experience and are experts when it comes to any type of home remodeling and repair projects. One of our many specialties includes senior safety modifications. If you or an aging loved one is interested in making changes to your home in order to make it safer and more accessible, we would be more than happy to help. Contact us today to request an estimate!