Home Adaptations for Seniors

Home Adaptations to Make Life Easier for Seniors & Help the Planet at the Same Time

By Claire Bradshaw

Let’s admit it; getting old is not a piece of cake for anyone. The joints begin to weaken, old injuries start to ache, and the muscles that were so strong in our younger years begin to feel more like pieces of spaghetti. Daily tasks that we once took for granted become a struggle. Deep in the heart of every elderly person, however, is the desire to remain in the family home as long as reasonably possible.

Our homes, though, are usually constructed by youngsters in the early stages of living, without any thought of the ravages that time can have on even the fittest people. When old age creeps up on us, then, the home that we love can become an exhausting obstacle course.

What are we to do without throwing out the old and wasting valuable natural resources to build a newer and better place to spend our golden years? While we know it is impossible to save the planet by ourselves, it would be irresponsible to neglect to consider the impact that rebuilding would have on the environment.

A better solution is to make changes to the current residence that would make it safer and less challenging for seniors. Those who do a little planning and research will find that many adaptations can be made in a short period of time. The following are some practical eco-friendly ideas to make life easier for older people:

• Put all articles which will be used daily in the bathroom and kitchen on easy to reach levels, to prevent reaching or bending. Any items that are never used and just cluttering up the place can be given away so someone else can make use of them.

• Exchange heavy vacuums, pots and pans, and garbage receptacles for lighter models. If still in good condition, the old can be sold at yard sales; the new may be found through listing a wanted ad on the local FreeCycle forum.

• Put in hand railings wherever possible, especially on steps leading into the house, beside the tub or shower, and next to the bed. Making a tour of the house with the installation of safety rails in mind should help you decide where they are needed.

• Search for a reconditioned stairlift to aid with climbing the stairs safely, but be certain to buy from a well-known, reputable dealer, who will vouch for the safety of the equipment and back it up with a warranty. This can be a cheaper option than buying new, and means a previously-owned model can be reused.

• If arthritic joints are becoming problematic, or a cane or wheelchair is needed, all entrances should be covered with a ramp for easy access. Doors may need to be removed between rooms, but these can be freecycled to save them going to landfill. In some instances, thresholds may need some widening.

• Another great idea is to check that each room has sufficient lighting within arm’s reach, as eyesight tends to dim with age. The bulbs should be replaced with more energy efficient fluorescent versions that do not have to be changed as often and emit a brighter light.

• As seniors with limited mobility tend to feel the cold, make sure the house is sufficiently insulated. This can reduce heating bills and help the environment.

While these ideas may sound labor intensive, as well as expensive, they don’t not have to be. Adaptations for the elderly are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to the cost of a hospital stay resulting from an accident. What is more, with a little thoughtfulness, they can be done in a way that is mindful of the environment.

This is a guest post by Claire Bradshaw, who believes we can all do our bit to live a greener lifestyle, no matter what our age. Claire writes for a website that offers advice on stairlifts, and she has firsthand experience of helping her grandparents to live comfortably and safely in their own homes.