Kelly's Healthy Home

I have been working on updating a presentation for an class I’m teaching in a few weeks. The class is focused on educating older adults on how to safely age in their current homes, while also increasing the value in their home. Think, simple tweaks they can do to enhance their living and even major modifications to consider. I haven’t done the presentation in some time due to COVID stopping all in person presentations and then COVID also resulting in a crazy busy market. But, I have missed educating and helping the community, so I’m excited to get back at it!

During my new research, I’m realizing that many of the smaller tweaks and alternations are actually good for a ‘happy and healthy’ home too! So I want to share some things you can do to your home to improve your functionality and lifestyle.

First is lighting. Both indoor and outdoor lighting are important for your safety and every day necessities. Also, as you age, eyesight decreases in a number of ways. For the outdoors try solar lights along walkways and around outdoor entertaining spaces. This way you use the power of the sun to light them up in the evening. You could also do motion sensor lighting for added safety and ambiance. Inside, natural light is great for during the day. Plus it’s free to use! But, you want to add layer lighting inside as the sun goes down and in darker areas of your home. Place table lamps or floor lamps near spaces you enjoy such as a reading nook, by the piano and by your bed. Also, recessed lighting with dimmers come in handy and people of any age appreciate those. LED lights and lightbulbs are more energy efficient and there are a ton of options these days.

Another improvement would be to declutter. This is one of my favorite suggestions when selling a home, downsizing and to improve the energy/chi in your home. Plus, it’s free and you could potentially even make some money if you try selling items. Decluttering is so important for aging in place to make maneuvering around rooms and hallways easier and safer, especially when needing a cane or walker. In addition to safety, small tables, knick knacks and ‘stuff’ around collects dust, which negatively affects your indoor air quality. Spend a few hours a week, focusing on one room at a time to remove unwanted and unnecessary items. It takes time, so give yourself time and grace. And if you need it, want it or treasure it, you don’t need to get rid of it. But make sure the flow of the rooms is easy and positive.

Another area to consider as your aging and an added bonus to the environment, is to consider public transportation as eyesight, hearing loss and mobility decreases. Look to car sharing, trains and buses to get to social activities and appointments. This isn’t a home improvement, but something to keep in mind if you are relocating to ensure this is an option in your community. Walkability is also good for your health, both physically and mentally. I know our township has a great free shuttle option and has made some sidewalk and trail improvements. Check out the municipality and even your county for options and embrace public transportation as much as you can.

There are many more way to ‘thrive in place’ that I’ll continue to share over the next few months. And if you have other suggestions, I’m always looking to learn- please follow me on Instagram and send a DM- @KellysHealthyHome.