You have many options when it comes to home improvements, here’s a few that are the most popular

Home improvements are one of the few things that you’ll likely get your money back on eventually, however it’s important to remember that until you sell your home and pocket the return on your investment, you still have to live with the improvement.

Here’s a few that people say they never regretted because of function and style:

Add a Mudroom

Some updates are good for style, others are good for when you actually have to live in a space. A mudroom is just that. Many homes in Florida don’t really have these, yet they’re incredibly handy. A good utilitarian space such as a mudroom not only brings the family entrance together, it can also help you keep the rest of the house cleaner. Just imagine all those dirty shoes and football pads being contained to a small, designated area of the house.

Update The Kitchen

This is a classic home improvement, and one that’s both equally desirable to potential buyers and your family since it’s one of the most frequently used rooms in the entire home. Kitchen upgrades can vary widely in scale. From replacing cabinets and countertops, to just new appliances. These changes will go a long way. You won’t regret this one.

Replace Windows

Windows are a subtle feature in a home that separate the average from the truly high quality. The right windows can not only provide great aesthetic improvements, they’re also tremendously functional and can insulate the inside from outside noise, intruders and even storm protection. In Florida, hurricanes are a very real threat and if you’ve lived through one, you know what a hassle preparing for one can be. Don’t be that person stuck in line at Home Depot buying plywood 4 days before landfall. Upgrade your windows and sleep easy all year round.

Click here for the full list.

As people get older, they may need assistance with everyday chores like cleaning. Illnesses that come with age may contribute to such so-called functional decline, even making personal tasks like bathing difficult. Taking steps now to make life easier when you are older can help reduce future stress. Lay the groundwork by creating the perfect senior home care environment. Below are three popular options and their advantages and disadvantages.

Buying a Senior-Accessible Home

If you are still in the family home where you raised your children, the odds are you no longer need such a large space now that the kids are all grown up. Downsizing to a smaller house means you will have to devote less time, money, and effort for things such as gardening and repairs. When looking for a new space, opt for something senior-accessible; studies have shown that one-story models to be ideal as they don’t require you to climb stairs.

Location is also a factor to take into account when shopping for a new home. You may want to move closer to family because this will provide you with support. There are also drawbacks, however. Read this article from US News for some of the common cons of living near family after retirement, including the danger of becoming a default babysitter and the limitations it places on you area-wise.

Making Modifications to an Existing Home

Another option is to simply prepare for aging by making age-friendly renovations at home. While this allows you to stay in the same space, you will need to spend money on renovations; for example, you might want to widen doorways to accommodate walkers. As Angie’s List explains. “Make sure hallways are lit with automatic night lights, which will assist in navigating your home in the dark.” If you have stairs, an automated stairlift may be a welcome addition to your home down the line.

Daily Caring details some affordable changes to make to your kitchen, such as replacing cupboard knobs with pull handles (which are easier to grab) and keeping items you need daily in lower drawers instead of hard-to-reach cupboards up high. For the bathroom, consider installing features such as grab bars next to the toilet, since standing up gets tougher with age, and lowering sinks to accommodate wheelchair users.

A Final Thought on How to Weigh These Options

When considering these choices, look beyond the practical matters. Take the time to consider what it will take for you to make the most of your later years. Are you intent on being nearby your grandchildren? Are you determined to keep your pet (which has actually been shown to improve senior health)? Would not having a garden be a deal-breaker?

Make sure that regardless of whatever option you choose from the list above, it meets this “must-have” criteria. Every person should be able to pursue their personal passions, whatever their age. With the wide variety of options available, there’s no doubt you will find a new home that accommodates yours.

This post was contributed by Harry Cline at newcaregiver.org – info@newcaregiver.org

These Fort Lauderdale summer camps will make you wish you were a kid again

Summer camps have come a long way. Now, there’s experiences and workshops for nearly every interest, passion and topic that a kid can imagine. Here’s a quick list courtesy of FortLauderdaleMagazine.com.

Broward Center for the Performing Arts Summer Theater Camp

Ages: 7-18
Where: The Broward Center
More information: browardcenter.org/summer-theater-camp
The Broward Center partners with The Performance Project School of the Arts for an immersive experience that teaches every part of live theater. And at the end of every session, campers perform in the Broward Center’s Amaturo Theater. Campers are divided into four different age groups.

Scuba Diving Camp

Ages: 8-16
Where: Birch (Bubble Makers) and Bahia Mar (PADI)
Kids can learn the basics or, if they’re ready, get certified through this pair of classes, beginner-level Bubble Makers and more advanced PADI Basic Open Water Certification. Ages grouped 8 to 13, 10 to 16.

For the full list on FortLauderdaleMagazine.com click here.

Here’s a few tips to get your home ready for Spring

Forbes.com has put together a list of classic design tips to give you some inspiration:

Elevate table settings with flowers

“For a spring table setting, fresh cut flowers are a must. There is no better way to welcome in seasonal blooms than making them center stage at your next gathering. I love using different styles of containers, each unique, and in varying heights. Keep the floral selection to one type of bloom, so there is an element of consistency. Pair your vignette with details like woven chargers and natural linens to create texture and interest. Allow the gifts of spring to fill your home with lightness and joy!” — Matthew Caughy

Mix Patterns

“Nothing welcomes in the spring season like a fabulous floral wallpaper. We selected this gorgeous silver/sage wallcovering for a client’s dining room to really make a statement. Mixing complementing colors and patterns in the rug and throw pillows adds additional layers of interest. We finished it off with a bit of glamour by installing the modern, crystal chandelier. The end result is a wonderfully welcoming room in any season.” — Lara Michelle

Click here for the full list of tips on Forbes.com

Here’s a short list of the most popular trends emerging for 2019

It’s a new year, new you, why not a new kitchen? Here’s a few of the most popular design trends that are taking shape for 2019.

Clever storage – we’re always on the lookout for ways to simplify, de-clutter and minimize. If you’re one of these people, you’re now in style! Top designers say that one of their top requests now is figuring out integrated storage solutions.

Wooden Elements – this might not seem new, but it never goes out of style. The most abundant resource on earth is making its way into some of the most chic spaces in upscale kitchens now. Wood creates a lighter, airier space that people love and feel warm in.

Tech – it’s 2019. Everything is becoming connected, the internet-of-things boom is in full swing and kitchens are not insulated from the progress. From wifi enabled espresso makers to smart wine coolers, there’s endless ways to automate some routine redundant tasks.

Click here to see the full list of 15 trends.