DIY Tips to Living Independently

February 26, 2018

Healthy Living

Many older individuals are choosing to age in place, rather than leaving their home. Many homes also require obvious home modifications such as stair lifts, ramps, and grab bars, that enable individuals to safely remain independent in their homes. However, these products do not address the smaller day-to-day tasks that can also prove a challenge. Read on for our list of 9 cheap DIY “Life Hacks” that can help you or a loved one live comfortably, independently, and help keep your freedom.

Secure (or simply remove) throw rugs – these are a common tripping hazard. Consider wall-to-wall carpet instead, or secure throw rugs with heavy duty double sided sticky tape if you absolutely cannot part with them.
Install nightlights that automatically illuminate when it is dark along walkways and on stair cases – you can buy some online for just over $1 each!
Place a plastic chair in the shower for those who tire easily or have balance issues. Preferably one with holes in the seat.
Do you have extra nail polish? Use different colored nail polish on house keys to help remember which ones go to which door – example, green for the front door and blue for the back.
Use a plastic over-the-door shoe rack to hold cleaning supplies rather than having to crouch and crawl under a low cabinet to reach them. This is a great way to help keep them out of the way of kids!
Get a reusable water bottle and mark hours on the side to help keep you well hydrated. That way you can make sure you’ve hit your mark by 9:00, 12:00, 3:00, etc
Just finished a loaf of bread? Don’t throw the twist tie away. Use twist ties from the bread bags to secure cords and prevent them from causing a tripping hazard.
Do you have glass cups that are hard to grip? Wrap rubber bands around glass cups to make them easier to grip.
Place bar soap in the foot of an old nylon stocking – the stocking improves ability to grip the soap, prevents it from falling and becoming a slipping hazard, and has the added benefit of exfoliating skin.