Our homes are more than just structures; they’re the backdrops to our lives, filled with memories and cozy spaces. But as we age and as our homes age along with us, maintaining that sense of comfort and security can require a little foresight and planning. In south central Wisconsin, where many homes were built decades ago, this is especially true. The good news is that by investing in strategic home improvements, we can ensure our homes remain havens of comfort, convenience, and value for years to come.
Many homes in our region, while charming, present challenges for seniors. Drafty rooms, outdated heating systems, and bathrooms that aren’t designed with mobility in mind can make daily life more difficult and costly. These issues aren’t just about convenience; they can significantly impact safety and financial well-being. Ignoring them could potentially jeopardize your ability to stay in the home you love.
Energy efficiency is a great place to start. Upgrading insulation, sealing air leaks, and installing a new high-efficiency HVAC system can significantly reduce your monthly utility bills. This is especially important for seniors who may be more sensitive to temperature fluctuations. A well-insulated home isn’t just more comfortable; it’s easier on the wallet. Project Home administers the weatherization program for Dane and Green Counties. Anyone can apply and be approved for energy assistance benefits through Energy Services, Inc. (esiwi.com) to qualify for free weatherization services through Project Home.
Bathrooms are another key area to consider. Falls are a major concern for seniors, and outdated bathrooms can pose significant risks. Installing grab bars, replacing a traditional bathtub with a walk-in shower or tub, raising the toilet seat height, and using nonslip flooring can dramatically improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents. These modifications aren’t just about addressing current needs; they’re about proactively creating a safer environment for the future.
Beyond the bathroom, consider broader accessibility modifications. Ramps, wider doorways, lever handles, and adjustable countertops can make a home more accessible and comfortable for everyone, regardless of mobility challenges. These changes can be invaluable for seniors, allowing them to move around their homes with greater ease and independence.
It’s important to remember that strategic renovations, even those primarily focused on aging in place, can actually boost your home’s resale value. Well-maintained and updated homes are always more attractive to potential buyers. Think of it as preparing your home for its next chapter, even if you plan to stay put for years to come.
The most compelling argument for investing in your home is the ability to stay in the place you love surrounded by familiar comforts and cherished memories. By taking proactive steps to update and modify your home, you’re not just improving its physical structure, you’re investing in your independence, comfort, and peace of mind. It’s about ensuring that your home remains your haven—a place where you can age gracefully and continue to thrive for years to come. Take a look around your home and figure out what changes you can make to ensure you and your home grow old together, safe and sound.
Kari Nichols is outreach manager at Project Home.
Photographs provided by Project Home.
Project Home has multiple county- and city-funded major and minor home repair programs for low- to moderate-income residents in Dane and Green Counties which provide many essential home repairs and accessibility modifications. We also do major home rehabs, including replacing a roof and gutter system, windows and doors, and renovating a bathroom for accessibility. Visit projecthomewi.org/programs/home-repair/minor-home-repair to learn more about these programs and their qualification requirements. For those that may fall outside the qualifications of Project Home’s home repair and weatherization programs, you can still utilize our seasoned professionals through Optimus, our social enterprise program, as a contractor for many of these same services. All profits from Optimus projects will be funneled right back into Project Home’s programs that serve our neighbors in need.
PROJECT HOME
(608) 246-3737
projecthomewi.org