7 Home Trends That Should Be On Every Boomer’s Radar
Baby Boomers are typically defined as the generation born between roughly the mid-1940s and the mid-1960s, meaning that the oldest members of this generation are in their 70s. Whether you’re approaching retirement age or have surpassed it, you have probably considered if you can spend the foreseeable future in the same home. You’ll be relieved to know that there’s no better time than now to age in place, as our market features a wide variety of technology that improves your home’s overall livability. These items are a must for every Baby Boomer:
1. Virtual Reality
Ever heard of virtual reality? Surely you have heard this word thrown around over the years, but it has become a reality in this incredible modern age. Virtual reality, or VR, typically includes a headpiece that covers your eyes and immerses you in what seems to be another world all together. Amazingly, this technology has evolved to benefit seniors in a totally unique way. There are programs geared at wellness, stress-relief, and strengthening cognitive health. Want to travel or immerse yourself in art without ever leaving the comfort of your couch? You might want to bring VR into your home.
2. Battery-Operated Alert Systems Or Motion Sensors
You’ve doubtlessly encountered a commercial or radio ad touting the benefits of battery-operated wearable alert systems… so what’s holding you back? If you find that you are at risk of falls, there’s nothing more intimidating than the lingering cloud of fear that hangs over you. Nobody likes to feel this way, but these simple solutions ensure that you are never alone, even though you may live independently. Motion sensors can alert caregivers if there appears to be a sudden lack of activity (which may save you a lot of discomfort if you fall and cannot get up), and alert systems may help you call for help even when a phone is nowhere in sight.
3. Voice-Controlled Devices
Surely you’ve heard of voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, but are these upgrades right for you? You might be surprised to learn that these high-tech assistants can benefit you in ways you’d never expect. Not only can these “smart” assistants set reminders, like if you need to take your medicine, but they can also help you keep your mind sharp and agile through the use of trivia. Additionally, these devices can help you develop an exercise routine or alert a caregiver if you need help.
4. Home Security Systems
Regardless of your unique needs, it never hurts to have an added level of security. Many systems can sense excess moisture or smoke, in case you leave the sink running too long or forget about the food you have cooking on the stovetop.
5. Motion-Sensing Lights
Aging can lead to a heightened risk of falls, a statistic that’s remarkably preventable. Installing motion-sensing lights can benefit you greatly in the dark when you’re feeling blindly for the light switch, an upgrade that can save you from injury.
6. LeafFilter Gutter Protection
Are you prepared to fix (let alone pay for) a leaky roof? Your gutters are an ingenious device meant to divert away water from your home and foundation, but they can easily backfire when they become clogged. Water can back up onto your roof or into your foundation, leading to costly damages and work that you don’t need to be pushing yourself to perform. LeafFilter Gutter Protection prevents the buildup of debris in your gutters, and its surgical steel screen is made from the same material as a heart stent to ensure that organic debris doesn’t adhere to its texture. Not only does this device protect your home, but it also keeps you safe by eliminating the chore of gutter cleaning!
7. Walk-In Bathtubs
Struggling to lift yourself over the edge of the tub? This can be especially frustrating when you realize that a steamy, hot bath is just what your aching muscles need. A walk-in tub from Leaf Home Safety Solutions includes a door, so you can maneuver in and out of the bathtub with ease and confidence. Grab bars provide you with additional stability, and a comfort-heated back and jets provide additional therapeutic features.
Once upon a time, we anticipated a future that looked much like an alien world. The reality of modern technology is that it’s not so much alien as it is human-centric, and it can benefit seniors in an incredible way. Which of these products are you most excited to try?
