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For many homeowners, the dream isn't just to find a great house, it's to find a "forever home"—a place where they can live comfortably and safely for years to come. With a significant portion of the population choosing to stay in their homes as they get older, the concept of "aging in place" has moved from a specialized topic to a central part of home ownership.
The benefits are clear: staying in a familiar environment can improve everything from emotional well-being to financial security. But what does it take to make a home truly "age-ready"? The good news is that you don't need a major renovation to make a big difference. At HouseCalls, we've shown viewers that a series of simple, high-impact DIY upgrades can dramatically improve safety and accessibility.
Here’s a practical checklist of easy projects you can tackle yourself this weekend!
DIY Checklist for an Age-Ready Home
1. Installing Grab Bars in Bathrooms
The bathroom is one of the highest-risk areas for falls. Installing a bathroom grab bar provides a stable point of support, especially for tasks like getting in and out of the shower or using the toilet.
2. Improving Lighting in Hallways and Staircases
Poor lighting can lead to trips and falls. A brighter, more evenly lit home is a safer home. You can improve visibility by:
- Replacing standard bulbs with brighter, energy-efficient LED lights in high-traffic areas like hallways and stairways.
- Installing nightlights with motion sensors in strategic locations to illuminate pathways at night.
- Upgrading light switches to rocker-style switches, which are easier to flip with an elbow or an open hand.
- Install Cove Lighting to add dimension and warmth to your living space
3. Refreshing Your Kitchen Cabinets
Update outdated kitchen cabinets without spending a fortune on a replacement. Repainting kitchen cabinets is one of the most transformative and cost-effective DIY projects you can do. It's not just about a new color; it's about giving your entire kitchen a fresh, modern look for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
Once your last coat of paint is fully cured, re-install your hardware. Or, consider upgrading your knobs or pulls for an instant modern update, a simple trick we've used to make old cabinets look brand new.
4. Installing Non-Slip Flooring in Key Areas
Slippery surfaces can be a hazard, but installing adhesive non-slip strips or mats is a simple solution under area rugs to prevent them from shifting.
These small, affordable changes can go a long way toward ensuring your home is a safe and comfortable place for many years to come.
