As you approach retirement or are already enjoying this new chapter of life, you’ve likely spent many years creating memories in your home. However, aging often brings changes to our health, lifestyle, and living needs.
Did you know that 76% of individuals aged 50 and older prefer to remain in their own homes as they age? With the right preparations, you can create a safe and comfortable living environment that suits your evolving needs.
Here are some key steps to make your home the perfect place for your future:
Safety First
Start by evaluating your home for potential safety hazards. Simple changes can make a big difference:
- Clear Obstacles: Remove tripping hazards like extension cords or area rugs.
- Flooring: Ensure smooth transitions between different flooring types (e.g., from carpet to tile or hardwood) to avoid sudden height differences that could lead to falls.
- Lighting: Make sure hallways and common areas are well-lit. A helpful tip is to install lighting that can be controlled from your bed, allowing you to avoid walking in the dark. Consider remote controls or accessible switches.
- Security: Strengthen your home’s security by adding sturdy deadbolts to exterior doors and ensuring windows can be securely locked from the inside.
Add Helpful Features
Certain modifications can make your home safer and more accessible:
- Handrails: Install handrails in high-risk areas like the shower or near the toilet to provide extra stability.
- Non-Slip Flooring: Add non-slip mats in the shower or tub and replace slippery bathroom tiles with slip-resistant flooring.
- Nightlights: Place nightlights in common spaces or the bathroom to ensure a well-lit path during nighttime.
- Easy-Grip Handles: Swap out doorknobs and faucet knobs for handles, making them easier to grip and operate.
Make Changes Before You Need Them
It’s easier and more affordable to make these adjustments gradually rather than waiting for a health issue to arise. By spreading out the costs over time, you can create a safer and more comfortable home without the stress of emergency repairs or modifications.
Ultimate Protection with Sun Health At Home
To truly enjoy peace of mind during your retirement, consider becoming a member of Sun Health At Home. This service offers financial security and a range of benefits to ensure you continue living safely and independently in your home.
One of the features with the Continuing Care at Home program, which provides home and lifestyle concierge services to assist with maintenance and upkeep, so you can focus on enjoying the life you’ve built. But the best reason to become a member is the wellness coordination, which provides an annual wellness assessment and customized health management to prioritize your health and wellness goals.
For more expert advice on home preparation, download our helpful resource here.
Interested in learning more about Sun Health At Home and what the future of retirement can look like? Attend one of our Discover Seminars. To register, call (623) 227-4663 or visit SunHealthAtHome.org.
