Aging can take a toll on the body, making it harder to get around and keep a home organized. If you intend to stay in your home as you age, consider the following improvements to ensure you can care for yourself without outside help.
Prevent Slip and Fall Accidents
As you age, it is easier to slip and fall than it was in times past. What is more, it can be harder to heal after such an accident than it was when you were younger. Carpeting, unlike tile or hardwood flooring, is not slippery; consider either installing wall-to-wall carpets or buying area rugs. A shower bar in the shower can prevent serious bathroom accidents, as can a grab bar by the toilet. If you have stairs in the home, consider putting rubber or vinyl treads on the edges to prevent bad falls.
Install Accessible Storage Space
You will need to be able to access clothes, stored food, office supplies, home cleaning supplies and other items with ease. Consider having a reputable company such as Closet & Storage Concepts Boston look over your home and create customized, accessible storage space. Pantry and office storage units like shelves and cabinets should be installed in arm’s reach so you don’t need to bend down or climb on a counter or stool to get what you need. Wardrobe lifts and easy pullout drawers and shelves are another good idea. They turn wasted space into a valuable storage area while making it easy to access items.
Get Rid of Unused Items
The more things you have, the harder it will be to keep your home organized. Spare yourself the time and stress of having to continually pick up clutter by going through your closets, shelves, and cupboards and get rid of items you no longer need. Be realistic about what clothes and shoes you keep: look for functionality and comfortability. Don’t be overly sentimental about items such as tools for a hobby you can no longer engage in or old keepsakes that have kept in storage for many years. If you have food items that you can’t or shouldn’t eat, dump them out. De-cluttering your home will make it easier for you to stay organized and prevent accidents caused by tripping over something that has been left lying around. It can also save money that you would have spent on a storage unit.
Get Started
Prepare for your golden years as far in advance as possible so you don’t have to worry about home improvements as you get older. If you intend to stay in your home as you age, consider the above tips to see how to make your house a safe, pleasant place to be. To make the most of your home, call or visit Closet & Storage Concepts of Boston today! We serve the entire Metro West area including Hopkinton, Franklin, and Medfield.