Have you ever thought about what it takes to make a home truly safe and comfortable as we age?
Most homes aren’t designed with aging in mind, even though 90% of seniors prefer to stay in their own homes as long as possible.
Helping a loved one adjust to a new living situation later in life can be challenging, but even small modifications can make a significant difference in safety and quality of life.
Adjusting to Change
Moving to a new living situation later in life can be challenging. Psychologist Nancy Schlossberg, author of Too Young to be Old, reminds us that adaptation takes time. Seniors often experience a mix of emotions as they transition to new living arrangements, and it’s important to acknowledge these feelings while seeking support.
Beyond physical modifications, the emotional aspect of transitioning to a new home is just as important. Support can come from family, senior centers, or professional organizations like the National Association of Specialty & Senior Move Managers (NASMM).
NASMM helps ensure accessibility and efficient storage solutions, while professional services like Curated Transitions offers services that simplify moving, downsizing, and estate clearing. For comprehensive home organization and decluttering support, Klutter Kutters specialize in personalized downsizing and move management.
Practical Home Adjustments
Senior living designer Lisa M. Cini, author of Boom: The Baby Boomers’ Guide to Preserving Your Freedom, recommends using her L.O.V.E. method—Light, Optimize, Visual, Ease—to design spaces that are both safe and functional. Here are some practical tips for making a home more senior-friendly:
- Doors & Floors: Replace round doorknobs with lever handles for easier grip. Use nonslip mats on polished floors and opt for low-pile carpeting to reduce the risk of tripping.
- Lighting: Brighter, well-placed lighting is essential as eyesight changes with age. Install motion-sensor lights in hallways, closets, and staircases, and use contrasting paint colors on stair edges for better visibility.
- Bathroom Safety: Equip bathrooms with grab bars near toilets and showers. Consider a bidet for improved hygiene, add a shower seat for stability, and install an anti-scald device to prevent burns.
- Living Room & Bedroom: Ensure furniture supports easy mobility. Adjustable chairs and beds at an appropriate height (around 21 inches) can enhance accessibility. Avoid glass tables and excessive clutter, and opt for room-darkening curtains that are operable by remote control.
- Kitchen Essentials: Select lightweight cookware and store frequently used items at eye level. Install an automatic stove shut-off for added safety, and use under-cabinet lighting to maintain clear, well-lit countertops.
For hands-on support in implementing these modifications, Klutter Kutters can help organize your home and streamline your move, while Curated Transitions offers expert guidance in decluttering, space planning, and relocation assistance
Technology & Social Connection
Modern technology can significantly improve safety and connectivity for seniors:
- Smart Assistants (Alexa, Google Home): Provide medication reminders, control smart home devices, and help manage grocery lists.
- Wearable Devices (Fitbit, Apple Watch): Track heart rate, steps, and send emergency alerts if a fall is detected.
- Video Doorbells (Ring, Nest): Enhance security by allowing seniors to see and communicate with visitors remotely.
- Tablets & Smartphones: Enable easy video calls and social engagement, reducing feelings of isolation and helping seniors stay connected with loved ones.
Final Thoughts
Adjusting to a new living situation can feel overwhelming, but with some modifications and support, seniors can make their homes safer and more comfortable. Whether it’s through smart technology, community support, or simple home updates, these changes can give seniors or anyone more confidence and independence.
If you or a loved one is considering downsizing or needs help organizing, Klutter Kutters and Curated Transitions offer compassionate, professional assistance to make any transition less stressful.
Trust the experts. We have been doing this a long time. We have the clarity to see what needs to be done and we know how to execute the project in the most cost efficient manner.
Even small steps can make a big difference in creating a space that truly feels like home.