A home is so much more than four walls and a roof. It contains a lifetime of joyful memories. So, no wonder we want to keep calling it home for as long as possible by aging in place.
But let’s be real - staying independent means planning ahead. By 2030, 80 million Americans will be 65 or older1. Making a few smart tweaks now can help you stay safe and thrive in your own space for years. Here are a few simple steps to adapt your home to your evolving needs.
1. Create a Safe, Comfortable Home Environment – As we age, small hazards can become bigger risks, but a few small updates can make your home a safer, more comfortable space.
- Outside, ensure walkways are easy to traverse and well-lit.
- Inside, secure loose area rugs to avoid tripping.
- Install grab bars and non-slip mats in potentially slippery areas like tiled showers.
- Light the way with motion-sensitive or remote-controlled lights, so you’re never caught in the dark or at risk of tripping over furniture.
2. Be Prepared with a Medical Alert System – Accidents happen, but having a medical alert device means help is always just a button press away. Look for a system with 24/7 monitoring, automatic fall detection, and connection to your emergency contacts or EMS. You’ll be able to choose and connect to the right type of care.
The MGHome Cellular medical alert system by Medical Guardian uses 4G LTE technology, doesn't require a landline, and provides all these features and more. It connects you to your emergency contacts and Medical Guardian’s 24/7 U.S.-based monitoring center so that help is always there when you need it. Additionally, the system works within about a 1,400-foot radius from your home (about 4 football fields!), ensuring you're protected everywhere in and around your property. Waterproof buttons keep you safe even in the shower — where slips are most likely to happen.
3. Secure Your Home with a Lockbox – A lockbox is something you don’t think about until you really need it, but when you do, it can truly be a lifesaver. A lockbox is a small, secure box that holds the key to your front door. Imagine experiencing a fall and being unable to answer your door for EMTs, or getting locked out of your house. A lockbox provides access to your home quickly.
Place a lockbox with a key to your door outside your home and share the code with a trusted friend or family member: Whether it’s a family member coming to check in, a friend dropping by for a visit, or emergency responders coming to your aid.
Bonus: The MGHome Cellular medical alert device includes a free lockbox with an annual plan. You can even add the lockbox code to your Medical Guardian portal, ensuring EMTs have quick access in an emergency. This not only speeds up response time, but also prevents any unnecessary damage to your door. It’s all about making sure the right people can reach you when you need them most.
If your goal is to live at home independently as long as possible, start planning early. By adding a few smart safety features — like grab bars, better lighting and a reliable medical alert system — you should be able to stay home for years to come.
Click here and use code FREEMGHOME25 to get a FREE MGHome Cellular system – plus a free lockbox – when you start an annual 24/7 monitoring plan!
1https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2019/12/by-2030-all-baby-boomers-will-be-age-65-or-older.html
