According to the recent National Home Modifications Survey, 78% of Canadians want to age in their own home, but only 26% believe they’ll be able to do so. The survey goes on to suggest, however, that simple home modifications such as installing access ramps, assistive devices, lifts, and smart home systems could be the key to helping Canadians stay in their own homes throughout their lives. Indeed, 93% of seniors agree that home modifications could help them age in place.

Why age in place?

There are many advantages to aging in the home you love, such as:

Maintaining your independence

You have complete control over your routine, meals, and the interior design of your space, as well as deciding who to allow into your space and when.

Familiarity

Aging in familiar surroundings, in the heart of the neighborhood you know and love, brings feelings of comfort and security.

Improved health

While living with the support provided by a care facility may be beneficial to some with significant needs, for others it may actually do more harm than good. Feelings of homesickness can lead to stress and depression, while facilities often present a greater risk of certain infections such as pneumonia and COVID-19.

Saving costs

The average cost of a retirement home in Canada ranges from $1,453-$4,500 a month, money that can be saved by staying in your own home.

If you or a loved one are looking into the logistics of aging in place, we’re putting together a series of blog posts on how to adapt your home so it can continue to meet your needs for years to come. In this first post, we’re looking at different options for adapting your home’s entryway.

Home Entry Modifications

Interior / Exterior railings

Exterior railings are a great and popular addition to your entryway if you just need a little extra support and something to hold onto while going in and out of your home.

Ramps

If you use a wheelchair, even if only occasionally, installing a ramp can make accessing your home easier. Different types of ramp include:

Threshold ramps

Small ramps made to butt up against the lip of a door or curb, making it easier to enter your home or even can be used throughout your home in various doorway situations.

Folding ramps

Portable and ideal for placing over a small flight of stairs leading to a home and also a great option for when loved ones visit.

Suitcase ramps

Similar to a folding ramp but with handles for easy transport. Can be laid over a small set of steps.

Modular ramps

These are more permanent fixtures, however they often don’t require a building permit because they can be taken down fairly easily.

Permanent ramps

Often made from wood or concrete, these usually need a building permit to be installed. Our Home Service Team can assist you with how to best prepare for installation during the consultation and planning meetings

Porch lifts

A porch lift is a vertical platform lift usually installed beside the porch and can be a great alternative to a ramp for wheelchair users, especially if you don’t have much space.

Home Services

If you’d like some guidance on home entry modifications, our Home Services team would be happy to help. They can organize a home assessment performed by a CAPS-certified consultant, who’ll be able to recommend the modifications best suited to your situation. Click the link below to learn more and contact the team.

Discover home services >

*Home Services is currently only available in Ontario

Resources

https://upsideinnovations.com/6-types-of-wheelchair-ramps/

https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/national-survey-shows-canadians-overwhelmingly-want-toage-at-home-just-one-quarter-of-seniors-expect-to-do-so-842023628.html