- Ensure your home is ready for retirement to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free lifestyle.
- Everyday struggles seniors face at home include difficulties with mobility, slips/falls, and difficulty reaching items in tight spaces.
- Simple home upgrades that make a big difference include investing in snow defenders and garage heaters.
- Install handrails, replace doorknobs and handles with more ergonomic ones, and add more lighting to make navigating your home safer.
- Update existing furniture or buy new items that are designed for easy access.
When it comes to retiring, one of the greatest joys is having the freedom to do what you want when you want. But as you age, mobility and accessibility may become more challenging.
That’s why planning and making your home as comfortable and accommodating as possible is important. This article will provide some simple home upgrades to make your retirement years much more accessible.
Why Do You Need to Prepare?
Your retirement years are some of the most essential times in your life. After working hard for years, you finally can relax and enjoy your life. While you might have thought about retirement in terms of investments, retirement accounts, and travel plans, one thing you might not have considered is how to prepare your home for your retirement years.
There are many reasons why it’s essential to make sure your home is ready for your golden years, such as safety concerns, maintenance and repair tasks, and the need for a comfortable living area. A well-prepared home can make all the difference in your retirement years, giving you peace of mind and making your life more pleasant.
Everyday Struggles of Seniors at Home
When you don’t take the time to enhance your home before retirement, you may face several struggles. Common issues faced by seniors include:
- Difficulties with mobility due to decreased physical strength
- Slips and falls due to slippery surfaces or poor grip
- Difficulty reaching items on high shelves or in tight spaces
- Diminished energy levels for completing household chores like cleaning and cooking
- Inability to stay in tune with technology due to lack of experience
These struggles can be alleviated with simple home upgrades that make your living space more accessible and comfortable.
Simple Home Upgrades for Retirement
Luckily, there are many simple home upgrades that you can make to ease your transition into retirement. These upgrades don’t have to be expensive either – even small, inexpensive changes can make a big difference in your everyday living:
Invest in Snow Defenders
Speaking of snow, investing in snow defenders will reduce the need to climb up and down ladders or blow snow off your roof during heavy snowfall. There are many types of snow defenders, but powder-coated snow defender-6500 is one of the most popular. These snow guards can be easily installed on your rooftop and help keep your roof free from large amounts of snow and ice buildup.
Install a Garage Heater
Installing a garage heater may seem unnecessary, but it can be a game-changer during the winter months. If your garage tends to get cold and drafty, a heater can transform it into a cozy workspace or a warm storage area for your car. This is especially helpful during the winter when you may be less mobile. You won’t have to worry about slipping on ice or snow while tending to your car or hobbies in the garage.
Install Handrails
As you age, mobility may become more challenging, and it may become necessary to use handrails to navigate around your home safely. Even if you don’t need them, consider installing bars in staircases, bathrooms, and hallways to prevent slips and falls. This simple addition can make a massive difference in the functionality and safety of your home.
Replace Doorknobs and Handles
Doorknobs and handles can be difficult to grip, especially for individuals with arthritis or other hand conditions. Consider replacing them with larger, more ergonomic handles that are easier to turn. This will save you time and pain, making day-to-day tasks less frustrating.
Add More Lighting
Adding more lighting to your home is essential to making it safer and more comfortable as you age. Install additional lighting in hallways and staircases to reduce the risk of falls. Consider adding nightlights in bathrooms and hallways to make navigating around the home at night easier.
Wrapping Up
Retirement is a time to relax; your home should support that relaxation. These simple home upgrades will save you time, reduce the risk of accidents, and make your retirement years more comfortable. By proactively approaching your home safety and accessibility, you can enjoy your retirement with peace of mind.
