Rather than spending their twilight years in a nursing home or assisted living facility, many people choose to age in place, meaning they remain in the residence of their choice. If your elderly loved ones opt for this option, make sure their property is safe and accessible for their needs with these remodeling tips.

4 Remodeling Tips for Aging In Place

1. Minimize Steps

As people get older, climbing up and down steps poses a greater fall risk. Prevent accidents and injuries by moving upstairs bedrooms or offices into room additions on the first floor. Alternatively, install a residential elevator or stairlift for safe transport to upper areas. 

2. Convert Bathrooms

Make bathrooms more accessible by redesigning doorways and floor plans to provide clearance for walkers and wheelchairs. Remove the curb of the shower to make stepping in easier. Add grab bars to tub and shower walls to prevent slips and falls.

3. Make Exterior Entrances Safer

For entryways, include a ramp instead of steps, increase the width of doorways, and install no-slip flooring to the porch. Add bright lighting to doorways and paths for clear visibility. 

4. Adjust Kitchen Sinks & Fixtures

Customize the height of kitchen sinks so your loved ones in wheelchairs can reach handles, knobs, and the bottom of the basin. Motorized sinks can be adjusted for standing and seated positions. Make washing dishes and meal preparation easy with hands-free fixtures, like sensor-activated faucets, and increase safety with anti-scald devices. 

Get started on remodeling for aging in place with design and construction services from Homeworks Construction. For over 20 years, this general contractor has provided new home builds, remodels, and additions to clients throughout Honolulu. Call (808) 955-2777 to schedule a free consultation today, or visit them online to view a portfolio of their previous work.