Seniors: Best and most cost-effective upgrades for your home

Home changes happen throughout the years. Whether they're for improving quality of life or peace of mind, these upgrades and renovations often cost a significant amount of money. And for those with a fixed income, living on a pension or receiving retirement/social security, it can make a hefty dent in the wallet.

Here are a few ways to make excellent stress-reducing renovations throughout your home without breaking the bank.

1: Remove doorway thresholds for improved safety

Eliminating potential trip and fall hazards may be the most prudent physical change to someone's living space. The simplest solution is to remove doorway thresholds and refinish the vacant space. If materials can't be matched on either side, consider adding a flat decorative element for aesthetics.

2: Upgrade the bathrooms

Of all the rooms in a home, full bathrooms may require the most critical renovations. The following upgrades can provide peace of mind when using them:

• Install non-slip materials on bathroom floors and showers.
• Install grab bars and rails in strategic places.
• Swap twist knobs for levers on doors and faucets.
• Adjust toilet height to a suitable level.
• Replace the bathtub with a lipless walk-in shower unit.
• Along with added safety, these relatively inexpensive changes also lead to improved quality of life usage.

3: Consider updating countertop heights

Kitchens with relatively high countertops, center islands and coffee bars tend to present a bit of a hurdle at times. Sure, we may need to use a step stool now and then, but using one frequently because of uncomfortable countertop heights can pose a safety risk.

The standard height of an ordinary countertop stands at about 36 inches. Lowering countertops to a more convenient height tends to reduce shoulder and arm strain. People of any age can benefit from a height-adjusted countertop.

4: Turn average doorways into archways

Senior living facilities typically employ wide doorways and archways rather than standard sizes. Individuals who find their permanent residence may discover removing a door and expanding the opening into an archway proves cost-effective and provides more comfort in maneuverability.

A finished carpenter can integrate aesthetically pleasing molding and trim while making the space feel roomier.