Your Aging in Place Plan | First Steps

Aging in Place | Varian Construction

A large amount of the Florida population is over 60 years of age, and many of these older adults want to stay in their homes as they age. If you are one of them, there are the steps you can take to create a plan for aging in place. 

1) Complete a home safety check 

One of the first things to do when creating a plan for aging in place is to complete a home safety check. By doing so, you’re ensuring your home is set up to be a safe and easy place to get around in and can identify areas that need improvement. AARP has identified several easy modifications that will ensure your home is a safe one. These include, but are not limited to, non-slip floor surfaces, grab bars in bathrooms, lever-handled doorknobs and personal alert systems that enable you to call for help in emergencies.

2) Prioritize your health

Another way to age in place is to prioritize your health. Keeping yourself in good physical shape is crucial to maintaining your independence as you age. Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and minimize your stress to stay as strong and healthy as you can for as long as possible. 

3) Recognize that technology is your friend

Not only is technology important in keeping you engaged with your community, family and friends, but it can also be beneficial as you age to help you maintain your independence. Beyond smartphones and Life Alert, other forms of technology you can add to your home include high-tech security/intercom systems and a residential elevator or lift. 

Aging in Place | Varian Construction

4) Work with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) 

To ensure your independence as you age, you should work with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). This certification program teaches the technical, business management and customer service skills that are essential to  older adults. A CAPS contractor can help you model your home into a safe yet stimulating environment that allows you to maintain your independence as you age. This certification provides CAPS contractors with the skills necessary to help clients make choices that will help them stay in their homes safely and securely. 

There is an expansive list of accommodations and features a Certified Aging-in-Place specialist can add to your home in order to make it more comfortable as you grow older. The full list can be found here. Some of the most notable and common remodels that can be completed for your home include changes to the overall floor plan, wider hallways and doors for wheelchair access, non-slip flooring, additional windows for natural light, handrails, easy-to-read controls on appliances, fold-down shower seats and more. 

If you live in Southwest Florida and are looking for a company that takes your future into consideration and can help you comfortably and safely age in place, contact Varian Construction at (239) 514-0103. Bill Varian, the company’s owner and president, is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist with your best interests, safety and future in mind. Varian Construction has been doing business and making homes more comfortable for Southwest Florida residents for over 30 years.