home additions, kitchen remodeling

Many seniors prefer to age in place rather than move into assisted living whenever possible. Perhaps they don’t want to let go of the home they’ve raised their family in or they prefer the high level of independence. Regardless of the reason, the kitchen is one of the most dangerous places in the home and can benefit from kitchen remodeling in Norwood, MA, to protect your aging loved one. Here are five projects you should consider.

Create More Room to Move

As mobility issues set in, it’s important to consider the amount of open space available when it comes to home remodeling in Norwood, particularly for seniors. Many seniors require a mobility device to help them get around, whether it’s a wheelchair, cane or walker. These devices often require additional space to be able to move around freely. If your kitchen has an island or other features that can get in the way, it may be time to consider removing them and replacing them with more space-saving features instead.

Consider the Lighting

Good lighting is essential for any kitchen, but it’s even more important for seniors who may be developing vision issues. It has been proven that appropriate levels of light help reduce the risks of falls for seniors, making this an essential element for your kitchen renovation in Massachusetts. Be sure any lighting you choose properly illuminates the whole room. Pay close attention to darker spaces, such as underneath cabinets. Recessed lighting can be a great way to keep the flow of the kitchen while offering the level of lighting required.

Choose Functional Flooring

Flooring is another important element as you consider a kitchen renovation for seniors aging in place. Rugs and other types of carpeting can actually be a tripping hazard, which can have dire consequences. Instead, opt for hard, textured flooring. Choosing a textured material helps create grip as seniors move around and greatly reduces the risk of falls, avoiding serious injuries that can often occur as a result.

Alter Storage Areas

Seniors often have difficulty reaching up into higher cabinets. Countertops can also be an issue for some seniors, depending on any health issues they may experience. For this reason, it’s important to talk to your home remodeling team about installing more low cabinets and perhaps even lowering the countertops. Lowering upper cabinets can also go a long way toward making the kitchen more accessible. This will make the kitchen more functional for seniors, allowing them to easily prepare healthy meals.

Include Smart Features

Smart features have made life easier for everyone, but they can be even more beneficial for seniors. Things like touchless faucets, hands-free soap dispensers, stoves with auto shut-off features, anti-scald devices and more can help make life simpler for seniors and ensure they are fully protected against many of the common dangers found in the kitchen.

If you’re considering a kitchen remodel for your senior loved one, contact us. We can help you decide the best ways to make their home safer.