Research shows that nearly 26 million Americans who are 50 years or older live alone. Some would agree that having an entire house to yourself has many perks, but the older you get, the more challenging home maintenance tasks can become. Regular DIY repairs can get physically demanding, and hiring experts to fix the smallest things can be financially draining. But that doesn’t mean your home (probably your biggest financial investment) should fall apart. Despite not being able to carry out heavy duty maintenance tasks, there are still lots of ways you can ensure that your living space stays well-kept and safe. With that said, here are some maintenance tips that are helpful for older adults.
1) Implement low-maintenance landscaping
Outdoor maintenance jobs can become very demanding if you’re 50 and over. So, consider simplifying things by opting for low-maintenance landscaping. For example, you can grow native plants and grasses that require minimal care to thrive. You can also use mulching to reduce weed growth, minimizing the need for extensive lawn care. If you love gardening, consider container gardens or using raised beds, as their maintenance comes with less physical strain compared to traditional gardening.
2) Conduct regular safety checks
Conduct regular safety to identify and address potential hazards before they become a problem. For example, you can have an expert assess your home for the presence of carbon monoxide. Better still, get specially designed carbon monoxide detectors and have them installed. But don’t end there; install smoke detectors and fire alarms and check them regularly to ensure that they’re functioning properly. Also, check every electrical cord and power outlet for signs of wear and damage, as they can easily become fire hazards.
3) Always look out for pest and rodent infestation
Pests and rodents can quickly turn your home into their hideout if you let them. Clutter, mess, disorganization, filth, and uncovered food are their top attractions. Once these uninvited guests invade your home, they will rapidly multiply if you fail to eliminate them. Their presence does not only put your health at risk but your home too, as they’ll slowly damage your structure. Rodents, for example, can chew through walls and wiring. Some can also burrow into your home through the ground, destroying your building’s foundation. Pests like termites and carpenter ants can eat away joists and wooden supports in your home, weakening your foundations. Do not waste an extra minute when you spot a rodent or pest in your home, as the presence of one is always a sign that there are others. Instead, find an exterminator near you and allow them to clear out pests more effectively.
4) Professional home maintenance services
One of the easiest and stress-free ways to stay on top of your home maintenance tasks is to hire experts to handle the physically demanding tasks for you. Of course, you can still take care of the ones that are less physically draining, but other tasks like gutter cleaning, repairing your HVAC system, and roof and ceiling repairs can be handled by professionals. Thankfully, you can search online to find many local handyman services tailored specifically for your needs.
Leave a Reply