Many dreams of being able to live in their homes for as long as possible, even as they become increasingly older. It can be harder to get around when you are older, which is why there are a few ways to ensure your home is still safe and that you are focusing on your wellness.
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Install a Home Lift
Source: stiltzlifts.com
Being able to get around your home is important as you get older, especially if you do your living on multiple levels. If your bedroom is on one level, your kitchen on another, and laundry in the basement, it might be time to consider getting a lift to prepare your home now. Lifts from stiltz.co.uk are attractive and can easily accommodate wheelchairs, and you can place them almost anywhere in your house.
Ensure Carpets Are Cleaned Right
Regular carpet cleaning can improve the lifespan and keep your home healthier as well. And just cleaning the surface of the carpet with a vacuum every now and then isn’t always enough. Doing a deep clean of all your rugs is necessary if you want to ensure a healthy living environment. You can choose to have a professional come in to do it for you. However, you will need to do your research to make sure you are choosing the right one. You can often find cleaners who will do the job without harsh chemicals. Or you could get some tools and use baking soda to do it yourself. Another option is to acquire a carpet cleaner to really get into the fibers of the rug.
Use Natural Cleaners
Source: birmingham.ac.uk
It’s healthier to clean your home with natural cleaners instead of using harsh chemical ones. Plus, making your own can be fun, especially because there are so many recipes to try out. You can also scent them with essential oils and decide which ones you want to use in which areas of the home. You might be concerned about the effectiveness of these natural products, but you can actually use bleach to sanitize after you have removed dirt from a surface. As long as you use bleach right, it can be highly effective for sanitization. It’s important to not mix it with any other cleaners so you don’t cause any chemical reactions. And make sure you dilute it with some water so it is not as harsh on your surfaces. But when used right, it can be ideal for bathrooms, doorknobs, the kitchen, and other frequently used surfaces.
Check for Mold
Mold is something that can make you sick, and as you get older, your body might not be as able to fight off easily. It’s important to understand what it looks like and how to treat and prevent it. It’s a good idea to ensure you are not leaving sources of water in your home, which can make a perfect environment for mold to grow. Consider using ventilation fans whenever possible and ensuring you are using a dehumidifier. Wash the shower curtain often as well. Mildew often grows in the bathroom, and it is very common.
Wash Your Hands Often
Source: intermountainhealthcare.org
You have likely heard the advice to wash your hands often, especially during the cold season. But as you get older, it becomes even more important to wash your hands often because your immune system might not be as good as it was in the past. Instead of using antibacterial hand soap, consider using regular soap because it can work just as well. It’s a good idea to wash your hands before eating, before and after handling food, after using the restroom, and before touching any part of your face. You should spend at least 20 seconds scrubbing your hands to clean them. Ask visitors to also clean their hands frequently so they avoid bringing too many contaminants into your home.
Controlling Dust
Dust can aggravate your allergies, and when you are getting older, you may be more likely to suffer from respiratory distress anyway. Plus, household dust has been known to contain contaminants such as lead, chemicals, and pesticides. If you have an older home, your dust is even more likely to have these contaminants in them. Consider replacing dust collecting carpets with hard floorings, such as tile or wood. If you are not able to do that, enough cleaning can be beneficial as well.
Vacuum regularly and make sure you move furniture, do the baseboards, and get in the corners. Use a vacuum that has a HEPA dust filter and great suction. This helps even fine particles of dirt and dust get sucked up. Make sure you vacuum at least twice a week or more. You should also clean out the inside of the vacuum each time so you are less likely to spew out old dust into the air.
Decluttering Throughout the Year
Source: pods.com
It’s especially important to get rid of clutter when you are older because it can create a tripping hazard. Try doing it at the start of each new season. You don’t have to make it a huge job, either. Instead, consider doing it room by room. Knowing what you have where can give you peace of mind. As you go through this process several times throughout the year, you will find it gets easier. You don’t need to devote an entire day to decluttering. Cap yourself at a few hours so you don’t get burnt out in the process. This allows you to spread out the process over several days or even several weeks.
You can use a bin system to help you stay organized – one for trash, another for broken items, and another for things you are ready to donate. Things you have never used or even thought about in the past year or so can likely be let go. Consider whether you really need that item and if you love it. If not, it might not be worth letting it add to the clutter in your space. The result will be a home that is safer to move around in. Plus, you’ll likely find it easier to relax in a clutter-free area.
