How empty nesters can adapt their home to make upkeep easier and keep themselves safer long term.

Shifts in the housing market over the last few years have caused many empty nesters to reconsider their plans to downsize. With high home prices and tight inventory limiting options, many homeowners have decided to stay put. Here are things they can do to make managing home upkeep easier and living in their present home safer.

Simplify landscaping

After decades of work, raising children and often, caring for elderly parents, homeowners in their 50s and 60s may find they have less enthusiasm for yardwork—and that their physical abilities have changed. To make yardwork easier and safer they can:

• Replace in-ground gardens with containers like raised beds, window boxes and planters
• Replace gravel paths with pavers that are less likely to cause tripping
• Incorporate more native plants that will thrive with less care
• Add pathway lighting for easier navigation in low light as well as seats for resting
• Install hand rails to make exterior stairs safer to navigate, especially in snow or icy conditions

Adapt to changes in physical abilities

To keep yourself safe at home when you have physical challenges—like arthritis, knee or hip problems or difficulty with balance—consider these modifications:

• Exchange round doorknobs for levers that are easier to operate
• Upgrade faucets with lever controls for easier control
• Eliminate throw and area rugs that can lead to tripping and falling; if you must have them, secure the edges to reduce the risk of falls
• Install grab bars in bathrooms that are accessible in the tub and by the toilet
• You likely already have handrails in stairways; consider adding a second one to provide support on both sides

Eyesight tends to diminish with age, but additional lighting can help you see what you want. Motion-sensor lights can be especially helpful in halls, entryways (interior and exterior) and stairways. Under-cabinet lighting can help with everyday cooking and cleaning. Moveable task lamps are useful for reading and hobbies.

Consider long-term needs when making updates

An ideal time to adapt your home for staying in place is when you’re making updates or doing renovations. For example, when replacing worn floors, opt for slip-resistant materials. When remodeling bathrooms, add an anti-scald device to faucets. When replacing showers and tubs, choose a barrier-free or low-threshold style.
If new windows or window treatments are in your plans, consider motorized options that can be controlled with voice commands, a remote or an app.

Financing home adaptations

Many of the things that make aging in one’s existing home easier and safer benefit people of all ages. So even if you’re not quite an empty nester, consider making the modifications above. If you need help with financing the upgrades, check out our home equity loans.
All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on credit worthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.