If your parents are getting ready for retirement, you can help them by cleaning out the house and getting them prepared for this next stage in their life. This is the time to make sure the home is safe for them as they age, and you can help make it more handicapped-friendly.
Image credit: photostock | FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Taking the right steps today will make their retirement easier tomorrow. Here are some changes you might want to consider for your parents’ home:
More open space
Falls are less likely to happen when your parents have plenty of space in the home to maneuver. If there is an accident, the paramedics will need that extra space to get in and handle the situation.
Even if your parents are in excellent health and you’re not worried about falls or accidents, it’s still wise to clean up the house and open up some extra space for their enjoyment.
This will make it easier for them to entertain and have friends over when they want. Get rid of the junk that’s been hiding in the corners for years. This will help prep them for later years when they might want to take stock of their belongings.
Pad their savings
As you clean the house to create more open space, look for items that they no longer use or want. Collectibles and other items that are in excellent condition may be sold for some extra cash. It will help clear up space in the home while padding their savings account for a rainy day.
They should also make sure their more valuable items are taken care of, whether in a will or just simply tell you where they want them to end up.
Make all necessary repairs
While you’re cleaning the home, you can look for problems and damage. Water leaks, mold, and other hazards should be addressed as quickly as possible to avoid structural damage and maintain good indoor air quality. Use this time to ensure that the home is structurally sound and safe.
Consider the future
There may come a time when your parents have to move into a Sunshine retirement living. Cleaning out excess clutter now will make that process easier. It’s wise to start talking with your parents to find out what they want done with certain pieces of furniture, or if there’s anything they would want to take with them.
Taking this step now will make it easier when you have to find a place for your parents later. Make sure they also have their medical preferences made out so you know how to care for them if something should happen to them.
You want your parents to be safe and happy in old age. Help them prepare for the future by getting the house ready today. They’ll enjoy the extra space in the house, and it will make it easier for emergency access in the event of an accident.
You’ll rest easier knowing that your parents are safe, and your parents will enjoy their retirement more when you are prepared early.
Brooke Chaplan
Latest posts by Brooke Chaplan (see all)
- At-Home Whitening Tricks to Get a Better Smile - September 12, 2016
- From Scratch: How to Make Better Bread at Home - September 9, 2016
- Contact Care: How to Help Your Kids Adjust to Life Without Glasses - August 19, 2016