Handyman in Vancouver: Enhancing Comfort and Accessibility as You Age in Place

Many seniors are passionate about remaining in the comfort of their own homes as they age. Aging in place is the process of making modifications and home repairs for seniors to allow them to live in their current homes safely and conveniently.

If increasing quality of life and maintaining independence are concerns for you or someone you love, consulting with a handyman in Vancouver who specializes in home modifications can help you make the changes that address your specific needs. There are several important projects to consider.

Kitchen Repairs for Seniors

The kitchen is the heart of the home. That doesn’t change as you age. However, using the kitchen effectively can become challenging as you get older. Cabinets that are too high, appliances that are too low and work surfaces that require extended periods on your feet can all result in reduced activity in the kitchen. Fortunately, there are several home repairs that can make meal prep joyful again:

• Upper cabinets can be lowered to increase accessibility. 
• Swapping some cabinetry with open shelving can make reaching commonly used items simpler.
• Installing a chair height island or lowering a section of the kitchen counter provides a convenient workspace for those who need to remain seated.
• Putting your washer and dryer on risers, installing a wall oven, or switching the design of your refrigerator can make appliances easier to use if bending or kneeling is challenging.
• Outfitting lower cabinets with slide-out shelves or lazy Susan shelving makes retrieving items effortless.

Don’t let accessibility issues drive you out of your kitchen. A skilled handyman in Vancouver can modify your kitchen so that it works for you.

Safety Measures in the Bathroom

Due to the frequency of use and the wet environment, bathrooms can become a serious risk to safety as you age. There are both major and minor changes you can make in this essential room to protect your welfare:

• One minor change that makes a big difference is the installation of handrails next to the commode and shower. This can help with mobility and stability.
• Adding a riser to the toilet can make the height friendlier for those who struggle to stand from a sitting position.
• Perhaps the most important change is to install a walk-in shower or tub. These greatly reduce the chances of slipping and falling and a walk-in shower can even be wheelchair accessible if needed.

Making alterations in the bathroom can keep you safe and ensure that you always have easy access to personal hygiene.

Accessibility Modifications for Floors and Doorways

Most doorways cannot accommodate the width of walkers or wheelchairs. Although it is a major renovation, widening the doorways throughout your home is essential to your quality of life. No one wants to be barred from areas of their own house.

Floor coverings should be carefully considered and changed if necessary. It is best to avoid carpeting and rugs as they can create trip hazards. Choose flooring that is smooth but slip-resistant. Many laminates may suit your needs or you can look at specialty flooring made of cork or rubber. If you absolutely must have carpet in some rooms, choose very low pile styles that are no more than 1/2 inch in height and make sure the underlayer will not allow the carpet to bunch or move.

Professional Home Repairs for Seniors With Handyman Connection

Residential maintenance, renovations, and senior home repairs serve much more than aesthetic purposes. They increase safety and provide a better quality of life. Handyman Connection in Vancouver is staffed with professional and experienced workmen who can provide a wide variety of services to allow you to age in place with grace and dignity. Schedule a consultation with Handyman Connection and begin your journey to greater independence today.