As Alaska’s senior population continues to grow, the state’s commitment to ensuring older residents can maintain a safe and independent lifestyle is more crucial than ever. Governor Dunleavy recently praised the contributions of the state’s seniors, emphasizing their wealth of knowledge and the importance of fostering environments where they can continue to thrive. According to the Alaska Commission on Aging, seniors aged 60 and older make up 21% of the state’s population, a figure that has increased by 77% over the past decade.
For many older Alaskans, the prospect of aging in place—remaining in their own homes as they grow older—presents a preferred option. It offers the dual benefits of preserving independence while remaining connected to their communities. However, for aging homeowners, ensuring their home remains safe and accessible as physical needs change is essential.
Preserving Independence Through Aging in Place
The choice to age in place is not only about preserving the comfort of familiar surroundings but also about retaining dignity and independence. Jim, a Housing Relations Officer at Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, emphasizes the importance of adapting living spaces to the evolving needs of older adults. “Aging in place allows seniors to hold on to something deeply personal: their sense of dignity and independence,” Jim explains. “Older Alaskans want to remain in their homes for as long as possible—not just because it’s familiar, but because it’s part of who they are.”
While many seniors wish to continue living in their homes, some discover that their homes are no longer as safe or comfortable as they once were. Jim notes that one of the most common regrets among older homeowners is waiting too long to make necessary home modifications. “By the time seniors realize they need grab bars, better lighting, step-free entrances, lever door handles, or non-slip flooring, it’s often after a fall or scare. Aging in place successfully is about creating a living space that works with you, not against you,” Jim advises.
Simple Home Modifications for Safer Living
For those looking to make small adjustments that can have a big impact, there are several DIY projects that can be completed relatively easily. Here are a few ideas that can increase both comfort and safety:
Motion-Activated Lights: Install lights in hallways and bedrooms to improve nighttime visibility.
Lower Bed Frame: Swap out a tall bed frame for one closer to the ground to make it easier to get in and out of bed.
Lever Door Handles: Replace doorknobs with levers for easier grip and operation.
Handheld Showerhead: Install a handheld showerhead in the bathroom for greater ease during bathing.
Non-Slip Surfaces: Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs or thresholds, and add non-slip mats to slick surfaces like bathroom floors.
Smart Home Technology: Consider integrating smart devices to monitor temperature, lighting, security, and even reminders for tasks or deliveries.
Furniture Arrangement: Rearrange furniture to create wider passageways and move the primary living areas to the main floor to avoid the need to navigate stairs.
Larger-Scale Renovations for Accessibility
For more significant changes that require professional expertise, larger renovations can be completed to enhance safety and accessibility. Some of the most impactful modifications include:
Install Grab Bars and Handrails: These can be added in bathrooms, hallways, and staircases to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls.
Smooth, Level Flooring: Replace uneven flooring to create a more seamless, trip-free environment. Consider materials like low-pile carpeting or slip-resistant vinyl flooring.
Ramps and Stairlifts: Installing ramps or stairlifts can provide easier access between different levels of the home, especially for individuals with mobility challenges.
Roll-In Showers and Accessible Bathrooms: Consider remodeling bathrooms to include a roll-in shower, a shower bench, and wider doorways. These changes can also extend to kitchens, with adjustments like lower countertops and accessible cabinets.
Single-Level Living: Some homeowners may choose to remodel their home to consolidate living spaces onto a single floor, removing the need for stairs altogether.
Conclusion:
Adapting a home to support aging in place doesn’t have to be a daunting or costly endeavor. By making small DIY changes or opting for larger professional renovations, older Alaskans can ensure their homes remain safe, comfortable, and conducive to independent living. As Alaska’s senior population continues to grow, the ability to age in place will help preserve autonomy and quality of life for many years to come.
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