As Canada’s aging population continues to grow, more and more people are thinking about how to make their homes safe and comfortable for the years to come. Almost 20% of Canadians are over 65, and many homeowners are choosing to “age in place” to maintain their independence and comfort- but staying in your home long-term means adapting it now to meet future needs.
Installing a home elevator may seem like a huge, unnecessary expense, but for many, it’s an investment in their future safety, convenience, and peace of mind. If you’re planning for your retirement now, it’s worth considering how home modifications and renovations can support your goals for your ‘golden years.’ Luckily, RAM is here to help Canadians explore their options.
The Emotional Benefits of Aging in Place
The decision to age in place offers more than just stability and familiarity. As more and more Canadians prefer to stay in the homes they’ve lived in for decades, it raises questions about how we encourage community and connection in seniors. For many, the choice to age in place is rooted in the desire to stay close to friends and family, maintain their regular routines, and feel comfortable spending their final years in a space that is filled with good memories and love.
Moreover, depending on the steps you’ve taken to prepare for retirement, aging in place is often more economical than a retirement home or assisted living community. Remaining at home keeps individuals in a private setting, avoiding the shared spaces and higher incidents of theft and illness that come with many assisted living facilities. Having a home elevator in place helps seniors avoid costly displacement and instead provides them with the accessibility and mobility solutions they need within their own homes to maintain their independence.
Avoiding Common Safety Hazards in the Home
Most homes present various safety risks for seniors, especially as mobility declines with age. Stairs are often a major hazard, increasing the risk of slips and falls, which are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. Bathrooms and kitchens can also be dangerous, with slippery floors, hard surfaces, and high countertops posing challenges for the mobility impaired.
Additional concerns include narrow doorways that may be difficult to navigate with mobility aids, a lack of handrails, and the need for constant bending or reaching. While a home elevator can’t fix every concern facing those aging in place, it’s a vital step in minimizing opportunities for seniors to face serious accidents or injuries in the home—especially those that may be fatal.
How a Home Elevator Can Help You Age With Dignity
Installing a home elevator is a solution that offers both enhanced safety and convenience. For individuals with mobility issues, elevators keep your multi-level home accessible and allow you to continue moving freely between floors without risking a fall. They also provide a stable and enclosed environment, which is especially important for those who struggle with their balance.
Beyond protecting your physical safety, a home elevator can provide emotional reassurance, making it easier for family members to feel confident that their loved ones are safe. All RAM elevators boast enhanced safety and security features, such as loud emergency alarms and automatic car lowering during power outages, to ensure your well-being at all times.
Is The Investment of a Home Elevator Worth the Cost?
While the initial cost of a home elevator installation can vary widely depending on the model and individual’s needs, more and more Canadians see it as a worthwhile investment towards their goals of remaining in their homes during retirement. Even though the price will vary based on factors such as elevator style, the number of floors it needs to serve, and any customization, RAM prides itself on being affordable and accessible in our product selection and pricing.
To help make your decision easier, we offer a cost calculator to help homeowners estimate the expenses of their unique, individualized elevator setup. As you consider these costs, it’s vital to weigh them against the potential savings of avoiding a move to assisted living, which often costs thousands of dollars upfront and ongoing each month. Additionally, adding a home elevator can increase your property value, making it attractive to future buyers if your retirement plans change.
RAM Elevators Is Here to Support Canada’s Aging Population
Whether you’re already experiencing mobility challenges or planning ahead for your retirement, investing in a home elevator is a practical and cost-effective way to age in place comfortably. RAM Elevators is here to guide you through the process, offering custom solutions to keep you safe and mobile in your own home. With the right modifications and planning, you can enjoy your independence for years to come, knowing your home is a place of safety and security. Visit our website or contact us to start exploring your retirement planning options today.