Top 5 Additions Elderly People Can Make To Their Home

As people get older, moving around the home can become more difficult; and simple tasks like climbing the stairs or getting in and out of the bath may not be as easy as they once were.

However, making a few affordable changes can make a big difference to comfort, safety, and independence.

Many people assume that home improvements for elderly residents require a big budget, but this isn’t always the case. There are plenty of cost-effective ways to make a home more accessible and safer.

These changes don’t just reduce the risk of falls and injuries; they also help older adults maintain their independence for longer.

5 Affordable Home Purchases For Elderly People

Here are five budget-friendly additions that can help elderly people live more comfortably at home.

Quick Summary:

1. Lever-Style Door Handles for Easy Grip

Traditional round doorknobs can be difficult to turn, especially for those with arthritis or reduced hand strength. Replacing them with lever-style door handles makes opening doors much easier.

These handles require less effort and can be operated with a simple push-down motion.

Lever handles are available for around £15-£40 and can be fitted to most doors with basic tools. This small change can make a big difference to ease of movement around the home.

For those who struggle with grip strength, an alternative option is a doorknob grip cover. These slip over existing round knobs, making them easier to turn. They are a very low-cost solution, usually priced between £5-£15 per set.

2. Motion Sensor Lights

Poor lighting can be a major hazard, especially at night. Tripping over rugs, furniture, or even a pet is much more likely in dimly lit spaces. Installing motion sensor lights means there’s no need to fumble for a switch in the dark.

These lights turn on automatically when movement is detected, making it safer to walk through hallways, stairs, and bathrooms.

Battery-operated sensor lights can be placed in key areas without needing an electrician. A set of these lights can cost as little as £15, making them an affordable safety improvement.

To maximise their effectiveness, consider installing them in:

• Hallways leading to the bathroom or kitchen
• Staircases where visibility is low
• Entryways or porches to provide better lighting when returning home at night

For extra convenience, smart bulbs that connect to voice-controlled devices can also be a good investment. These allow lights to be turned on and off without having to move across the room.

3. Ramps for Easier Access

Doorsteps and raised thresholds can be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues. A simple ramp can make a big difference, allowing easy access for walking frames, wheelchairs, or even just reducing the risk of tripping.

Portable ramps are available for as little as £30 and can be placed at the front door, back door, or between rooms with different floor heights. Some models are lightweight and can be moved as needed.

If buying a ramp isn’t an option, there are temporary solutions such as threshold strips that create a smoother transition between different floor levels. These cost as little as £10 and are ideal for small height differences that cause a trip hazard.

4. Stairlifts to Rent Instead of Buying

Climbing stairs can become challenging, but a stairlift really can help. While buying a stairlift outright can be expensive, renting one can be a much more affordable option. Stairlift rental allows elderly people to get the help they need without the large upfront cost.

Renting a stairlift can cost as little as £10 per week, depending on the type of staircase and installation. This is a good option for those who may only need it for a short period or don’t want to commit to buying one.

When considering a stairlift, it’s important to check if financial assistance is available because in some cases, local councils or charities offer grants to help with the cost of installing home adaptations.

5. Shower Seats for Safer Bathing

Standing for long periods in the shower can be tiring and risky and that’s why a sturdy shower seat can be a great choice for a comfortable and safe place to sit while washing.

Some models even fold up when not in use, making them practical for shared bathrooms.

Shower seats start at around £20 and can be easily installed in most showers. This simple addition can make bathing much safer and more comfortable.

For those who need extra support, there are shower chairs with backrests and armrests, costing between £40-£70. These provide additional stability and comfort.

Adding a handheld shower head can also make washing easier while seated, and these are available from as little as £10.

Another helpful addition is a bath board, which rests across the edges of the bath and allows a person to sit while swinging their legs in and out.

This reduces the strain of lowering into the bath and can be an alternative to a full shower chair.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Making a home safer and more comfortable doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple additions like lever-style door handles, motion sensor lights, ramps, stairlift rental, and shower seats can make everyday life much easier.

These budget-friendly solutions help elderly people stay independent while reducing the risk of accidents at home.

In addition to these affordable changes, regular home maintenance is just as important. Checking for loose rugs, uneven flooring, or cluttered pathways can help prevent falls.

Small adjustments like using a reacher grabber tool for picking up objects or placing commonly used items within easy reach can also make daily life more manageable.

While major home renovations can be costly, these simple solutions provide an effective way to improve safety without spending a fortune.

Investing in a few of these additions can make a home more accessible and give elderly residents the confidence to continue living independently for as long as possible.