As we grow older, we need a good sanctuary that is both accessible and adaptable to whatever our lifestyle requires. While these needs may differ from individual to individual, there are a few crucial common features to consider.
Conducting a quick safety audit of your proposed home as you begin to age can provide peace of mind and help prevent any potential mishaps by keeping an objective eye on safety in mind.
While there are a number of decisions to make when you are nearing your golden years, one of the most difficult can be choosing where to live, as many retirees prefer spending their golden years abroad.
Obtaining residency is the key consideration when retiring overseas. You can embark on a long-term cruise to Mexico, where visa options are flexible for retirees meeting income or investment requirements, or consider moving to Panama, which stands out for its fast-track residency and multiple visa options alongside retiree perks and access to healthcare.
Now that you have settled down, this article will provide you with five handy modification tips to make the necessary adjustments for a safer living environment in your new home.
# 1. Living Areas
Ensure the light switches and lamps are easily reachable and the living area well-lit to prevent any falls or accidents. Add night lights for navigating in the dark.
Even the darkest room can be transformed with good decor, mirrors and strategically placed light fixtures.
Keep the area clutter-free to reduce the risk of trips and falls. Make sure the walkways are clear and store items in their proper storage space. Arrange furniture to create clear walking space and provide sturdy and supportive seating options.
# 2. Seek open plans
A well-designed open plan having spacious rooms can not only be uplifting, but will have practical benefits too that can support your golden years.
Open-concept layouts are easy to navigate and adaptable to future requirements, if mobility issues start appearing one day. Hence, a wide floor plan will support walkers and wheelchairs.
Beyond that, open-concept homes are ideal for day-to-day living. The lack of walls ensures easy socialization or watching the TV from the kitchen.
# 3. Consider Security
Proper home security is essential to secure a safe home environment. Research if the property has a fence, or if there are any hiding areas in the yard.
Check your potential home for weak entry ways, and make the necessary adjustments before you move in. A secure home will let you age peacefully and comfortably.
# 4. Focus on safety
Besides security, safety should also be taken into account before moving into your new retirement home, as many as 60% of seniors endure falls at home.
As you age, it is crucial to modify the property to help avoid accidents and injuries. Place handrails on the stairs, non-slip flooring in bathrooms, ramos for wheelchair access in doorways and walk-in tubs in bathrooms.
# 5. Ensure accessible storage
Sometimes, even a large home may lack adequate storage space, particularly in a single floor property. Your chosen home storage should be accessible and within easy reach at all times.
Each room should have adequate storage options, just like the bathrooms and kitchens which already have built-in spaces that are neither too high or awkward to reach.
Your living area should be spacious enough to accommodate furniture which can also double-up as storage space.
Afterthoughts
Your golden years should be a source of joy, complete with fond memories and experiences, which is only possible if you have a comfortable place to age, and one that allows you to flourish in a secure and safe environment.
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