Did you know that 28% of seniors live alone? Social isolation and loneliness can increase the risk of dementia and cause other health-related risks.

Technology for seniors is a great way to combat loneliness by providing connection, entertainment, and more.

Keep reading to learn five apps that seniors should have.

1. Video Calling Apps

Technology for seniors makes a lot of things easier, including catching up with family and friends that may be distant.

If seniors have an iPhone, they can use the pre-downloaded FaceTime app to connect with others. If seniors have an Android, Google Duo is typically already installed.

Skype, Google Duo, and Zoom can be downloaded on any iOS or Android device. FaceTime is only available for iOS users. Zoom is the best app for group calls so seniors can get together with their loved ones at the same time.

2. GoodRx

One of the best apps for seniors is GoodRx. Elderly adults with costly prescriptions can cut down their costs with a simple download.

GoodRx is free and allows seniors to find the best coupons and prices to save on prescriptions. The app is able to offer major discounts because it compares prices from over 70,000 pharmacies to find the lowest cost.

3. Lively

Technology for the elderly can save lives. If a senior is in a position where they need urgent care, the Lively app can help. Aging in place is ideal for a lot of seniors, but it can be dangerous.

Lively is an urgent-response app that connects seniors to an agent when they are experiencing a medical emergency, feeling unsafe, or have fallen.

With one tap, the app can track the senior via GPS and call the local authorities, loved ones, or medical professionals.

If seniors have a smartwatch, they can connect it to the app. Seniors can also purchase a Lively medical alert device to be used in case of emergency.

4. Facebook

It’s no secret that a lot of older adults are on Facebook. Facebook allows seniors to stay connected in a more technologically advanced way.

Not only can seniors talk to their family and friends with ease, but Facebook allows them to share their views, thoughts, videos, photos, and much more!

Seniors don’t have to get on the computer to access this app. They can enjoy social connection anywhere by downloading the iOS or Android Facebook app.

5. Games

Apps for senior citizens provide entertainment in situations that may otherwise be boring. Retirement is great, but what can you do with days to yourself?

Downloadable games are a great way to stay entertained and even keep seniors’ minds sharp.

The world is increasingly digital, so there are a lot of classic game apps that seniors can download. Gaming options are almost endless, seniors are likely to find their favorites.

Technology for Seniors: Try These Apps!

Many seniors have smartphones and are learning to use technology to stay connected to family and friends. Technology for seniors has advanced far enough to be a helpful tool.

These five apps can help seniors stay connected, get emergency help, find cheaper prescriptions, and stay entertained.

For more guides on technology for seniors, check out our blog.

Can you believe that the number of elderly people in the United States will almost double within the next 40 years, reaching 80 million?

This eye-opening statistic reinforces the urgency to do everything we can to take care of our older loved ones. For instance, it’s crucial to incorporate a universal design in the bathroom so that the dangers are minimized if not eliminated altogether.

Are you wondering what it involves? Keep reading to learn all about how to achieve a smart bathroom design for elderly loved ones.

The Door

If you’re serious about bathroom safety, then you can start by upgrading the door. The width should clock in at 80 centimeters, at the very least. This makes it much easier to come and go instead of having to squeeze through the door each time.

It might even be necessary to install a door that slides. It’s advisable to remove locks from the door, allowing a caretaker to act quickly in the event of an emergency.

The Toilet

When it comes to a small bathroom design for elderly loved ones, it’s essential that the toilet can be accessed with ease. This involves clearing the pathway of various obstacles. Even something as seemingly harmless as a rug could prove hazardous.

Instead, the toilet should be free of everything except essentials, such as toilet paper that’s within easy reach. Installing handles on the walls can also go a long way toward increasing safety. That way, your loved one won’t need as much effort to get on and off the toilet.

The Shower

Do you want even more senior citizen bathroom design tips? The shower is yet another area that can result in severe injuries or worse if it isn’t designed properly. Like the door, the shower box should have a width of at least 80 centimeters.

It’s recommended that the shower area has enough space for a second person in case a caretaker needs to help. There should also be plenty of vertical and horizontal handles. A fold-out stool that’s around 46 centimeters above the floor can ensure that your loved one is able to rest and get to hard-to-reach places without over-exerting themselves.

It’s common to install a second showerhead so that a potential caretaker can more easily help. Whatever you do, it’s a good idea to compare your ideas with ADA bathroom design guidelines.

Ready to Have a Bathroom Design for Elderly Loved Ones?

Now that you’ve learned all about how to achieve a smart bathroom design for elderly loved ones, you can rest assured that they’ll be safe anytime they need to take a shower or do something else. Your elders will certainly appreciate all your work on this project.

We can provide you with in-depth guidance so that your home is a place where elderly loved ones can thrive. We even have floorplans that you can download as PDFs.

You should check out some of the floorplans here. Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter and receive three free floorplans.

It’s increasingly common for multiple generations of families to live together in a shared space.

This is especially true when parents or grandparents require full-time care, a member of the family has serious medical issues, or you simply want to consolidate in an effort to save money by living under the same roof.

Whatever the case, you need to make sure there’s enough space in your home for everyone. That’s why you might want to consider investing in a basement remodel. But is this the right option for your family? Here we take a look at the reasons why you might want to create a mother in law suite. Keep reading to learn more.

It Helps Save Money

Let’s start by talking about the cost of placing elderly parents in an assisted living facility. The simple truth is that full-time care is incredibly expensive. In fact, quality full-time care can drain your loved one’s savings very quickly.

Fortunately, investing money in a basement renovation to create an in law suite costs far less than a senior care facility. Plus, a basement renovation is a one-time expense. Thus you’ll save money while ensuring that your elderly parents continue to receive the best healthcare possible.

It’s More Cost-Effective Than Building a Room Addition

Many people think they need to build an addition to their home to make space for an elderly loved one. But if you have an unfinished basement, this makes the expense of a room addition unnecessary. 

That’s because the structure is already in place. A basement renovation finishes out the space so that elderly parents will have all the modern conveniences to maintain a comfortable standard of living. 

It Increases Your Property Value

It’s also important to remember that investing in a mother in law suite in your basement increases the resale value of your house. After all, you are creating additional living space that will help attract potential sellers when you’re ready to sell.

It Helps Bring Your Family Together

There’s something very special about multiple generations of a family getting the chance to live together. It gives you the chance to deepen relationships, strengthen familial bonds, and create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

It Provides Peace of Mind

Having everyone under the same roof provides peace of mind, especially when elderly parents or grandparents are involved. You will know where they are at all times, and that they are receiving the quality of care they need and deserve.

A Guide to the Value of Investing in a Basement Remodel

It’s never easy dealing with loved ones who are again in place. That’s why you need to understand the value of investing in a basement remodel to ensure every member of the family is as healthy and happy as possible.

Be sure to check out these common signs that your elderly parents would benefit from home care.

Did you know about 20% of the United States population live in multigeneration homes?

Having a full household can be overwhelming and stressful if you’re taking care of aging family members. Mother-in-law suites are a great option if you’re looking to keep your family close and in residential living instead of assisted living.

There are also other uses for these suites. If you’re considering adding extra living space to your property keep reading. We are going to tell you everything you need to know. 

Holidays

Holidays can be a challenging time with different families coming together. Having a mother-in-law suite can help minimize conflict between family members. Extra living space will also allow you to host more family and friends and potentially save you money on hotels and transportation. 

Child Care

A mother-in-law suite doesn’t just have to be for your elderly family members. If you have young children you may need to hire an au-pair or a nanny.

This could be a great spot for him or her to move in so they can be close. Families spend thousands of dollars on childcare every year, and this extra suite will help you cut down on the cost of daycare. 

Aging in Place

If you have an aging parent or grandparent it can be comforting to have them close. While there are some safe assisted living facilities, you’ll have peace of mind with your loved one in your mother-in-law-suite. 

It will also save you and your family members money as living facilities are expensive. If your parent or grandparent is still self-sufficient, this is a great option as they can still have their independence. They may be able to help you with errands and child care too. 

Increased Home Value

Mother-in-law suites will add value to your home if you ever plan on selling. Many families are looking for extra space for guests and aging parents.

It can be a great selling point that you should advertise when you’re selling. It’s a versatile space so it can be used for many different things if your buyers don’t have elderly family members. 

Guest Privacy

Privacy is a great benefit that everyone will appreciate no matter who you have staying in your suite. Not only will your guests and family have privacy but you will too.

It can be overwhelming to have people constantly coming in and out of your home. With this living option, you won’t have to worry about people coming in unannounced. 

Make Extra Money

If you’re interested in making some extra money, a mother-in-law suite is an easy option. People in the community may be looking for different living options. There may be a college student looking for an affordable place to live or a young professional who just moved to the area that you could rent to.  

Mother-in-Law Suites

There are many great benefits that come with adding mother-in-law suites. When you’re designing your space you’ll have different floor plans to choose from so you’ll be able to choose the best one based on your needs. 

If you’re ready to start building yours click here. We have helped many people create the perfect space and we can help you too. 

As we get older, there will be times when we need more help doing things than we used to. If you’re the family member of an older adult, you might have taken on the role of being their caregiver.

If this sounds accurate, you might be wondering if there are some tips that will ensure you care for seniors the way they deserve to be cared for. Read on now and check out these need-to-know tips.

1. Keep Your Emotions in Check

When you ask your loved one if they need help doing something like getting dressed or brushing their teeth, it might seem like a simple request. However, you might become frustrated with the fact that your loved one is moving slowly or has forgotten to do something altogether.

While the task might seem simple to you, it’s not the case for your loved one. Remember to show compassion and keep your emotions in check. Instead of getting upset with them, step in and help them with their task.

2. Coordinate With Other Family Members

There will be times when you’re providing home care, and you’ve got other things to do. If your loved one needs significant help, you can’t leave them at home by themselves, which means you need to coordinate care for your loved one with a family member or a licensed caregiver.

Ensure there is someone available at all times to be there for your loved one when they need them. This means being available for doctor’s appointments or grocery runs.

3. Increase Social Activity

Did your loved one have hobbies they used to enjoy or places they liked to frequent but no longer do so? It’s essential to provide your loved one with as many opportunities to be social as possible, especially with people their own age.

This gives them the opportunity to be around other seniors that enjoy the same things they do. Besides, getting out of the house to get some fresh air has been shown to have several benefits for people of all ages.

4. Get Help When Needed

Remember, you can’t do everything on your own, and if you notice the level of care you’re providing to your loved one is suffering, it’s time to seek help. You might consider hiring a senior caregiver that has been trained in the art of home health care.

Ensure you allow your loved ones to participate in the interviewing process because they’ll be working directly with them. Therefore, it’s important they get along with each other.

Providing Care for Seniors: Tips to Know

Are you providing care for seniors? If so, there are some things you need to remember, like providing them with activities to engage with others and get help when you need it.

Have you decided to care for a parent and need to create a space for them in your home? Contact In-Law Suite. Com today.

Your loved ones are getting older, and you’ve been trying to figure out how to open up a conversation about them moving somewhere both closer and safer. They’re not on board with moving into your home, but you know you want them nearby. Now what?

Have you considered a mother-in-law suite? 

What is a mother-in-law suite anyway? It’s a (usually) detached building outside of the main home that functions as an independent dwelling unit. It’s similar to a bungalow or a standalone apartment.

But why would you want one? Let’s talk about it. Read on for a few reasons that you might want to consider an in-law suite. 

1. They’re Customizable

If your aging loved ones are thinking about moving into a smaller apartment, or even into a senior care facility, they’re going to have some limitations when it comes to what they can and cannot do to their new home.

It’s likely that your loved ones have extra needs now. Some people choose to no longer live in homes with stairs when they get older to avoid falls. Others want restrooms with walk-in showers and handrails for a safer experience.

You can’t customize an apartment or room in a retirement facility, but you can build your mother-in-law suite design from the ground up. You can create the perfect space for your loved ones.

2. They’re Versatile

So what if your loved ones are planning on moving in, but they’re not yet ready to live there full-time yet? What if they’re not ready to move at all? That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t plan ahead and build an in-law suite now.

When your loved ones aren’t spending time in their suite, you can use it for a variety of purposes. It can be a fantastic little guest house, an art studio, or just somewhere to get away for a little while. 

It’s best to build sooner rather than later, so you’re prepared well ahead of time.

3. You’ll Keep Your Loved Ones Close (But Not Too Close)

This is the most important reason that anyone would choose to build a mother-in-law suite. It gives you the opportunity to keep your loved ones nearby so you can help them (and vice-versa).

Many people don’t feel comfortable with the idea of living in the main house with their families. They value their privacy and don’t want to be “burdensome.”

An in-law suite is the perfect middle ground. Senior loved ones can enjoy aging in place in a safe environment that’s both private and close to family. 

The rest of the family can maintain their privacy, but they get the peace of mind of knowing that their loved ones are safe and any grandchildren will have frequent access to their grandparents (which is great for childhood development).

Start Planning Your Mother-in-Law Suite

Are you convinced? A mother-in-law suite is a great addition to any property. You’ll add a whole separate living area for your senior loved one (or for you to enjoy on your own). 

Looking for more mother-in-law suite inspiration? Start here and see how we converted a garage into an in-law suite!

With assisted living costs on the rise, more and more seniors are opting to age in place. Aging in place is a great way to save money, maintain your independence, and spend more time with your loved ones. 

If you want a successful aging-in-place experience, we’re here to offer a few tips. Read on for a brief aging in place guide.

Not Planning Ahead

If you or a loved one is aging in place, you need to plan for the future. What is “aging in place” going to look like as the years go by?

What does your emergency plan look like? Do you have the finances to continue aging in place? 

You need to discuss these things early on before anything happens. Having a plan in place will ensure that no one has to scramble to make last-minute decisions. 

Not Being Proactive About Safety

If you plan on aging in place, you need to make sure that you’ve made any necessary safety modifications to your home (or you’ve built a new home or suite with built-in safety features). 

Even if you’ve always been healthy and active, it’s likely that you’ll start to experience a decline in your mobility as you age. This can make everything from walking down the stairs to standing for long periods of time dangerous. 

When you’re reactive about safety, you only start making changes after something bad happens. When you’re proactive, you’re preventing problems from happening in the first place.

Falls are the leading cause of injury for seniors, so this is our best and most important piece of aging-in-place advice!

Not Asking For Help

Many seniors think that aging in place means that they should be completely independent. Remember that independence doesn’t mean that you should never ask for help. Even the healthiest person (at any age) needs help from time to time. 

You may, at some point, need someone to care for you in your home. Whether it’s a professional caregiver or a loved one, there’s nothing wrong with asking for assistance!

If you no longer feel capable of driving to get groceries or go to appointments, have someone else drive you (or use grocery delivery services). This is best for your safety and the safety of other people on the road.

You can even get help with your daily chores. 

Not Being Willing to Alter Your Lifestyle

While you’re aging in place, you’re going to have to make some changes, especially if you’re moving into an in-law suite. This is going to be a great new adventure and you’ll be able to spend time with your loved ones, but your life will change.

You may feel the need to reject the use of a mobility device or accept help from family members. You may want to take over chores in the family household because you’re used to doing them in your own home.

Make sure that you and your loved ones have set boundaries with each other so you can figure out where you’re going to need to change your habits. 

You’re on Your Way Toward Successful Aging in Place

Successful aging in place doesn’t have to be hard. Keep these common mistakes in mind when you’re drafting your aging-in-place plan so you can make the transition with ease.

Are you looking for more helpful information about in-law suites and aging in place? Check out the rest of our helpful blog posts or get our free newsletter! Start here with Mother in-Law Suit Floor Plans.