Steps for Converting a House into a Senior Friendly Home …

There are many changes to consider when you're updating a home to be senior friendly. From senior-friendly bathroom fixtures to kitchen conveniences, you want to do it right. Use these novel ideas to prepare your or your loved one's home for aging in place.

In a perfect world, a senior lives in a single story home with a no-rise entry or in a mansion with a functioning elevator. Most of us do not live in that perfect world. Follow the tips below to make sure your home is as safe and convenient as possible.

The pathway into many homes has cracked sidewalks and uneven surfaces. This creates danger zones. Repave and reconstruct level, smooth surfaces to for easier mobility.

Transform entryways into safe zones for seniors.

A room with a view makes a difference. Better lighting will keep your loved one safe.

Aging mothers (and fathers) deserve a functional kitchen they will adore. Your goal is to increase accessibility and prevent bending and crouching. If you can improve the room's aesthetics as well, that's a double bonus.

First, manual dexterity decreases as we age. So make the appliances work for her, not the other way around.

Next, ensure there is easy access to the items in the pantry.

Then, focus on faucets. You want to make sinks easier to use and keep safe from water burns.

Safe accessible bathrooms don't just happen. You will need to tackle the washroom to keep your loved one independent and protected at home.

Many slips and falls happen in and around the bathroom and shower area.

Give your loved one a better grip. Well placed grab bars in the shower, tub, and next to the toilet prevent falls.

Make bath time a time for peace and quiet. For many seniors, sitting on the bath floor is hard and standing in the slippery shower is risky.

Follow these simple tips and your aging in place experience redesign will be a breeze. With less worry and more safety, you can make each day a real page-turner.

Written by Shayne Fitz-Coy

Shayne Fitz-Coy is the Co-CEO and President of Alert-1, an aging-in-place technology company headquartered in Williamsport, Pennsylvania with offices nationwide. Shayne has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Harvard College and a Masters in Business Administration from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist. Shayne hails from Maryland, and now calls the Bay Area home.

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Steps for Converting a House into a Senior Friendly Home ...