Aging in Place: When Your Home Becomes Your Enemy

Independent living is on the rise for the elderly. The older generation in the UK seems particularly determined to see out their twilight years in the comfort of their own homes, with 96% of elderly people wanting to stay in their own home for care.

However, that comes with challenges. Many seniors need certain changes to accommodate their health issues, which can require significant architectural alterations and a big financial investment.

In this article, we will be looking at the most noteworthy challenges when it comes to aging in place, as well as how a personal alarm can be a great way to get some peace of mind.

Architectural barriers

Many homes are not well-suited to people who have specific care needs or those who have changes in their level of mobility. Some particularly taxing architectural barriers in modern homes include:

• Steep steps up to the house.

• Multiple floors.

• Upstairs bathrooms.

• Narrow passages.

• High cabinets.

• Slippery surfaces.

• Step in showers and baths.

• Poor lighting.

These features can make it incredibly difficult for those trying to age in place, as they are a significant barrier when it comes to living in comfort for elders with mobility problems. The costs of having these architectural features altered can be astronomical, but more on that later.

Universal design principles for aging

When discussing a universal design, we mean it in the most literal way possible. These aren’t designs that are only suitable for seniors or those with care needs. They are designs that can be beneficial for everyone, regardless of age or how able-bodied they are.

It might seem like an impossible challenge to have a universal design that doesn’t look too clinical or feel like a hospital, but it’s absolutely possible to still get that homely vibe.

Here are a few features to consider when it comes to a universal home design:

• Door handles that are lever-like rather than round knobs.

• Entrances with no steps.

• Non-slip floors.

• Task lighting.

• Walk-in showers and baths.

• Rocker light switches.

• Pull out shelves.

• Appliances that are within reach and not placed on high surfaces.

• A variety of counter heights.

• Grab bars that have a design that slots easily into the rest of the home decor.

• Wider doorways and passages.

• Open floor plans.

Cost of home modifications vs. assisted living

The cost of modifying homes to make them friendly for aging in place can fluctuate wildly depending on a range of factors. As can the costs of assisted living. Modifying a home can be more costly if significant architectural changes are needed. On the other hand, assisted living costs can be more expensive if the individual in question has more complex care needs.

According to The Good Care Group, the average monthly costs for care homes in the UK tend to range from £15 to £30 per hour for visiting care and between £800 and £1,800 per week for a live-in care service. These costs can rise or fall depending on the aforementioned factors. When it comes to home modifications, the costs can reach heights of around £25,000 for larger changes, such as the installation of a downstairs bathroom.

In the UK, your local council will typically cover the costs of home modifications if they are less than £1,000. If you need more significant changes, the government offers the Disabled Facilities Grant. This allows those who meet the qualifications to receive a sum of money to go towards the necessary modifications.

DIY safety improvements on a budget

As mentioned, low-cost safety upgrades can be obtained for free from your local council if you meet the requirements. But there are also a few DIY improvements that you can make for yourself if you are on a budget. Some of these DIY changes can include the following:

• Door handle changes.

• Non-slip mats in the bathroom.

• Motion sensor lighting.

• Rug grippers or non-slip rug pads.

• Kettle tipper pouring aids.

Professional safety assessments

The aforementioned support from your local council can be obtained if you meet the government’s specifications. This can be checked via a home assessment. You can also go through the NHS to obtain an assessment.

Be aware that there is usually a long waiting list, and it might take some time for you to be seen if you opt for this route. A private assessment is also an option, though you will have to pay a fee.

Personal alarms for those aging in place

If you or a friend or family member is considering aging in place, then a personal alarm can be an invaluable tool that offers plenty of peace of mind. SureSafe’s affordable alarms make it easier than ever for seniors to live independently with a range of features that create a sturdy safety net for those aging in place:

• Automatic fall detection.

• Complete mobility.

• 24/7 monitoring and access to a manned response centre.

• The ability to talk directly through the pendant.

• Reminders for medication.

• Find Me functions.

• A home beacon.

• Geo-fencing.

• A chat feature for family and friends.

Learn more about SureSafe personal alarms for aging in place

Aging in place might be the preferred option for many seniors, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, as mentioned above. SureSafe personal alarms can alleviate any worries you might have surrounding the isolation that can come with living independently as an older person.

SureSafe devices provide simple-to-use and affordable protection for those aging in place, including 24/7 monitoring and the ability to talk to your contacts or our response centre directly through the alarm.

To learn more about how SureSafe can offer safety and peace of mind while you or your loved ones are living alone, give us a call at 0800 112 3201 or try our live chat. You can also request a call back via our easy online form.