As we age, many of us want to stay in our homes for as long as we can. This desire, though understandable, can be challenging to fulfill. One of the biggest hurdles? Stairs. Many American homes have staircases inside and outside, which can pose significant risks for older adults.
These stairs aren’t just an inconvenience – they can increase the risk of falling, potentially leading to serious injuries. To address this issue, many homes need to undergo modifications. These changes transform living spaces into aging-friendly environments, making it safer and easier for seniors to move around their homes independently.
What Is Aging in Place?
The ability to stay in your home as long as possible, instead of moving into a retirement home or assisted living facility, is often called “aging in place.” Most American homes don’t have modifications or safety features to reduce injuries like falling.
Most homes should be outfitted with different mobility aids to help seniors live independently and maintain a safe and hygienic lifestyle.
According to a recent study by Maggie Ratnayake, more than 77% of participants over 50 prefer to age in place, with only 1.2 million adults over 65 living in nursing homes.
The Pros and Cons of Older Adults Living at Home
Staying in your home and aging in place has many pros and cons. Here are the biggest issues to consider:
Pros of Aging in Place
- Most adults feel safer living in their own homes
- Closer to friends and family
- Ability to keep your belongings without having to downsize
- Maintain your independence
- Live in a safe, quiet neighborhood
Cons of Aging in Place
- Most American homes will require modifications for better mobility
- Lack of help with activities of daily living such as bathing and food prep
- Some who choose to live at home experience loneliness
- Home modifications cost money and can be expensive
Mobility Tools and Home Modifications for Aging in Place
Recent data trends show that more and more seniors are choosing to live at home. A recent study by Matt Toth shows that in the last twenty years, the percentage of those choosing to live at home has increased while those choosing to live in retirement homes has decreased.
This means more homes require modifications to help those staying at home age with dignity and grace.
Different devices and mobility aids may help you or your loved ones remain at home for as long as possible. The most beneficial at-home tools are typically wheelchairs, wheelchair ramps, chair lifts for stairs, and walk-in showers.
Whether you live in Pennsylvania, Kansas City, or the West Coast, you’ll need to find a reputable stairlift company. Particularly one that offers quick installation while adhering to all the necessary safety policies and precautions.
Success Stories: Pennsylvania Seniors Thriving at Home
Customers at Independent Home Solutions share their stories through our Project Spotlight series.
Recently, our team at Independent Home Solutions installed a wheelchair ramp in York, Pennsylvania, so one of the homeowners can safely get in and out of their home.
At Independent Home Solutions, we aim to help seniors maintain their independence while safely moving around their homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a reliable stair lift company in Pennsylvania?
Independent Home Solution is a trusted stairlift company in Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading, and York, Pennsylvania. IHS installs chair lifts for stairs, wheelchair ramps, and walk-in showers so you or your loved one can live in the comfort of your home.
What is required for seniors to age in place in Pennsylvania?
Aging adults may need assistive devices such as raised toilets, stair lifts, adjustable beds, walkers, wheelchair ramps, or walk-in showers.
Some may also require extra assistance, such as help with activities of daily living like bathing, food prep, and more.
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