Stylish home updates that make aging easier

Most people want to keep an independent lifestyle as they age, while staying in their homes as long as possible. ​ To do that, updates may be needed, says certified aging-in-place specialist

Nora El-Khouri Spencer. To give you an idea of the types of projects that single-story or multilevel homes or apartments might need to keep them easy to navigate, Spencer provides tours in

the videos below. She explains how large and small renovations, stylish updates and space reconfigurations can improve safety and quality of life — allowing you to live more comfortably now

and into the future.​ “As you age, your home may not always fit your changing needs,” Spencer says.​ VIDEO: Stylish Single-Story Home Updates That Make Life Easier RENOVATIONS NEEDED TO STAY

IN YOUR HOME LONGER​ Front entrances can be tricky for anyone who uses a wheelchair, relies on crutches or a cane, or has difficulty climbing stairs. One solution is an access ramp, but

they require a lot of space and a gentle slope. A contractor can help with a custom configuration, or consider an alternative entrance such as a door inside the garage, which might be more

easily adaptable, Spencer says.​ Small updates can make chores less of a challenge. Task lighting in kitchens makes chopping food, cleaning and reading recipes easier. In the bedroom, extra

lighting helps with bedtime reading and getting up in the middle of the night.​ Cabinet pullout drawers and organizers can make kitchen space more usable. “Having storage that you can pull

toward you will keep you from having to bend down to reach into the back of the cabinets, lessening the strain on your back,” Spencer says. Other improvements can help older adults avoid

injury. Stairs can be made safer with secure handrails and anti-slip treads or a chairlift.​ Bathrooms should be a main focus since they’re where many accidents occur. Replace a shower

curtain with a door, as a curtain won’t help you regain balance during a fall, Spencer says. Grab bars inside and outside the shower and near the toilet provide even more stability.​ VIDEO:

Tips for Multilevel Home Renovations STYLISH HOME UPDATES FOR EASIER LIVING​ Updating a home doesn’t mean you have to give up on style, Spencer says.  For example, a table just inside your

door will help you set down bags and packages as you enter. Pick something that matches the style of your home, so it is  “both decorative and functional,” Spencer says. Consider other

updates too: Storm doors serve a purpose, but they can cause injury by slamming shut and knocking you off-balance. If you have a storm door, you may want to remove it. While you’re at it,

replace any thumb-latch door handles (difficult to use if you have arthritis or full hands) with a lever-style handle that needs only light pressure to operate.​ A video doorbell and smart

thermostat can be controlled with apps that can screen visitors and save money on heating and cooling expenses.​