While for many years America’s seniors have opted for the amenities and services offered by assisted living communities, this trend is quickly coming to an end. Today, reports have shown approximately 90% of seniors hope to remain in their homes as they age. This change is largely driven by the rising costs of assisted living, greater availability of home services such as meal delivery services and home nurses; as well as the advancement of age-appropriate home modifications. The devastating impact that COVID-19 had on nursing homes has also added to this shifting change.

Grab bars are often prescribed to ensure safe and independent bathing and toileting. Studies have shown that seniors do not always use grab bars for several reasons like reluctancy due to the associated stigma. 

Stairways and elevated floors are major challenges for many individuals, seniors and those recovering from an injury. Today, more than 1/3 of the population above the age of 75, has some form of mobility restriction.  For many the stairs has become a handicap.  Platform lifts are a good option for them, being designed to raise the consumer and their wheelchair, scooter or power chair to the desired level. These lifts are durable and ensure easy accessibility both indoors and outdoors. They help to overcome barriers such as stairs and give easier access to the home.

In survey after survey, senior citizens say the same thing: they want to spend their remaining years at home instead of a nursing home or assisted living center.

However, remaining at home isn’t always feasible as we get older, at least without some aging in place home modifications.

Here are a few things you can do to make your home – or your parents’ home – a safer, more comfortable place to age in place.