For many, the ideal scenario is to remain in their current home as they grow older. However, as health issues and aging make certain areas of the home harder to navigate or pose greater risks of injury, this can become challenging. The thought of selling and moving can feel overwhelming, but it’s not the only solution. With the assistance of a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) like Carla Stevens, adapting your home to meet your changing needs is a viable and often preferable option.

If health concerns necessitate moving in with an adult child or another loved one, Carla can also help them make the necessary modifications to their home to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment for you.

Even if you know your home like the back of your hand, aging can turn familiar spaces into hazards, and everyday tasks may become more challenging. Identifying these risks early can help determine when home adaptations are needed. Some common issues include:

• Raised thresholds: These can become tripping hazards and may be difficult to navigate for those using walkers or wheelchairs.
• Bathrooms without safety features: Slippery floors, high bathtubs, and the lack of grab bars can lead to dangerous falls.
• Area rugs that can cause tripping: Loose or curled edges of rugs can easily catch a foot, leading to trips and falls.
• Stairs that become difficult to climb: Reduced mobility can make navigating stairs a daily struggle, increasing the risk of falls.
• Doorknobs that are hard to turn: Arthritis or reduced hand strength can make turning traditional round doorknobs difficult.
• Cabinets and shelves that are hard to reach: High shelves or deep cabinets can become inaccessible, making daily tasks more cumbersome.
• Poor lighting: Inadequate lighting can make it difficult to see hazards, increasing the risk of trips and falls.
• Narrow doorways: These can be problematic for those using mobility aids, such as walkers or wheelchairs.
• Slippery outdoor surfaces: Wet or icy steps and walkways can pose significant fall risks, particularly in regions with harsh winters like Iowa.
• Lack of emergency access: In case of a fall or medical emergency, having easy access to a phone or medical alert system is crucial.

By recognizing and addressing these potential risks early, you can make your home a safer and more comfortable place to age in place.

A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) is trained to evaluate your home, identify problem areas, and recommend appropriate modifications. Simple solutions might include installing grab bars in the bathroom, flattening thresholds, and adding brighter lighting. More complex issues, such as managing a two-story home, might require significant remodeling to ensure safety and accessibility.

CAPS professionals are well-versed in:

• The specific needs of individuals aged 50 and older
• Home modifications tailored to aging in place
• Common remodeling projects
• Practical solutions to everyday barriers

Carla Stevens, a certified Aging in Place Specialist and Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, is dedicated to helping you find the best solutions for your evolving needs. Whether you’re considering minor adjustments or major renovations, Carla can guide you through the process, ensuring that your home remains a safe and comfortable sanctuary as you age.