New Year’s Resolutions for the Healthy Homeowner

Every January, we make promises to ourselves: move more, eat better, stress less. But what about the place where we spend most of our time: our home?

If you’re a homeowner who plans to stay put (and enjoy it), 2026 is the perfect year to treat your house like the long-term investment it is. A healthy home isn’t about flashy upgrades or chasing trends, but it is about safety, comfort, efficiency, and a little future-proofing. Here are nine resolutions that will quietly pay off all year long.

1. Upgrade the Air You Breathe

Indoor air quality has officially moved from “nice to have” to “non-negotiable.” Modern whole-house air purifiers, smart ventilation systems, and high-efficiency filters can significantly reduce dust, allergens, and airborne pollutants. If your HVAC system is more than 10–15 years old, this is the year to assess whether it’s working for you or just limping along.

2. Make Bathrooms Safer (and Smarter)

Bathrooms are one of the most common places for household injuries. Small updates like curbless showers, grab bars that don’t look institutional, slip-resistant flooring, and better lighting can make a big difference. Bonus: today’s designs look like luxury spa upgrades, not hospital rooms.

3. Test, Then Retest

Radon, carbon monoxide, and water quality are all non-issues until they are an emergency. Annual testing is simple, affordable, and often overlooked. If you haven’t tested your home in years (or ever), make this your baseline year and set a reminder going forward.

4. Declutter With a Purpose

This isn’t about minimalism or Marie Kondo guilt. It’s about safety and ease. Clear walkways, organized storage, and fewer “just in case” piles reduce fall risks and make daily life smoother. If you haven’t used it in five years, it probably doesn’t need to stay.

5. Invest in Smart but Simple Technology

Smart home tech has grown up. Today’s systems focus on security, energy efficiency, and peace of mind: smart thermostats, leak detectors, lighting on timers, and video doorbells. The key is choosing tech that works quietly in the background, not something that requires a manual and a tech support hotline.

6. Tackle Preventive Maintenance Early

Waiting until something breaks is stressful and expensive. A healthy home runs on prevention: roof inspections, gutter cleaning, foundation checks, and exterior maintenance before New England weather does its thing. Scheduling these early in the year can save money and sanity.

7. Improve Lighting Everywhere

Good lighting isn’t just aesthetic, it’s functional and protective, especially as we homeowners age. Layered lighting, brighter bulbs in stairways and hallways, and motion-sensor exterior lights all improve safety. As eyesight naturally changes, lighting upgrades are one of the most underrated improvements you can make.

8. Rethink Entryways and Exits

Your home should welcome you in and let you exit safely in all seasons. Consider railings, improved steps, better drainage, and ice-management solutions. Small upgrades here reduce slips, improve curb appeal, and make daily routines easier year-round.

9. Plan for Aging in Place (Before You Need To)

The smartest homeowners plan ahead. Even if you feel great now, thinking about future mobility, access, and maintenance needs allows you to make thoughtful upgrades instead of rushed decisions later. A home that adapts with you is a home you can enjoy longer.

A healthy home doesn’t need to be perfect but it does need to support the life you want to live. In 2026, resolve to make your house safer, smarter, and more comfortable. Your future self will thank you… probably while enjoying lower energy bills and fewer emergency repair calls.

If you want help prioritizing which improvements make the most sense for your home, that’s where experienced professionals (and honest advice) come in. Because the best resolutions are the ones you actually keep.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Revitalize Your Living Room for Winter Comfort

As we spend more time indoors this winter, it’s a good idea to refresh your living space for maximum warmth and comfort. Your living room should feel like a cozy retreat from Connecticut’s chilly temps, and a few simple updates can make a world of difference. From layering textures to introducing this year’s most inviting paint colors, here’s how to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere in your home.

Embrace Cozy Textiles and Layers

One of the easiest ways to transform your living room for winter is through soft furnishings. Swap out lightweight summer throws for chunky knit blankets, faux fur, or woolen textures that invite you to snuggle up. Layering area rugs can also add warmth, especially if you have hardwood or tile flooring. A plush, high-pile rug over a flat-weave base creates an extra-cozy look and feel underfoot. Don’t forget to add plenty of cushions in varying fabrics like velvet and chenille to enhance the inviting ambiance.

Introduce 2025’s Trending Paint Colors

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in revitalizing your space. The color trends for 2025 are all about warmth, nature, and creating a sense of comfort. If you’re considering a new look, these trending hues will set the perfect tone for your winter sanctuary:

• Earthy Clays and Warm Terracottas: Inspired by nature, these rich, grounding tones bring a sense of stability and warmth to your living space. Shades like “Autumn Ember” or “Sienna Sunset” from leading paint brands are excellent choices.

• Deep Greens and Forest Tones: Reflecting a renewed connection to nature, hues like “Evergreen Haven” or “Mossy Retreat” create a calming and restorative environment.

• Muted Blues and Soft Teals: While traditionally cool, shades like “Coastal Mist” or “Winter Sky” add a sense of serenity when paired with warm wood tones and soft lighting.

• Rich Chocolates and Deep Caramels: For a sophisticated, cocooning effect, consider deep, chocolatey browns or caramel-infused neutrals. These colors work beautifully with warm metals like brass and copper accents.

Play with Lighting for a Warm Glow

Shorter days and longer nights make lighting an essential element in setting the mood. Swap out cool-toned LED bulbs for warm white or soft amber lighting. Incorporate layered lighting by using a combination of floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces to create a gentle, ambient glow. Candles and string lights can also add a touch of magic to your winter haven.

Rearrange for Better Functionality

Sometimes, a simple rearrangement of furniture can make a room feel brand new. Try orienting seating around a focal point like a fireplace or a central coffee table to encourage conversation and relaxation. If space allows, add a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair, a small side table, and a warm lamp for those long winter evenings.

By embracing rich colors, soft textures, and thoughtful lighting, you can transform your living room into a comforting escape from the winter chill. Whether you make small tweaks or go for a full refresh, these updates will keep your home feeling warm and inviting all season long.

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. For remodeling needs, contact O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Submit your questions to Bob at info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line "Ask the Pro." All questions may be considered for publication, and advice is for guidance only.

Smart Home Upgrades for Seniors and Older Adults

As we age, maintaining independence and comfort within our homes becomes increasingly important. Smart home technology has emerged as a transformative solution, offering a range of upgrades that cater specifically to the needs of seniors and older adults. These innovations not only enhance convenience but also contribute to safety, health, and overall well-being. Let’s explore some smart home upgrades that can turn any residence into a safe haven for seniors.

Smart Lighting Systems

Smart lighting systems are an excellent way to enhance visibility within the home. They can be programmed to adjust brightness levels based on the time of day, providing optimal lighting conditions for different activities. Motion sensors can automatically turn lights on and off, minimizing the risk of accidents, especially during nighttime navigation. Voice-activated controls, such as those integrated with virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, make it easy for seniors to manage lighting without getting up.

Smart Thermostats

Maintaining a comfortable temperature is crucial for seniors, especially those with mobility challenges. Smart thermostats enable remote temperature control through smartphones or voice commands. Additionally, they can learn the occupants' preferences over time and adjust the temperature accordingly. This not only enhances comfort but can also contribute to energy savings, providing a win-win solution for seniors looking to manage their living expenses.

Home Security Systems with Monitoring

Safety is a top priority for seniors, and smart home security systems offer advanced features for peace of mind. Video doorbells, indoor cameras, and smart locks allow seniors to monitor their homes remotely. Some systems even include emergency response services that can be activated through voice commands or a simple button press, ensuring quick assistance in case of an emergency.

Smart Flooring and Fall Detection Systems

Preventing falls is a critical concern for seniors. Smart flooring systems equipped with sensors can detect unusual movements or a potential fall, triggering automatic alerts to caregivers or emergency services. Fall detection wearables, integrated with smart home systems, provide an additional layer of safety by continuously monitoring the user's movements and detecting sudden falls.

Smart home upgrades tailored for seniors go beyond mere convenience; they empower older adults to age in place comfortably and safely. By integrating these technologies, seniors can maintain their independence, reduce the burden on caregivers, and enjoy a higher quality of life. As the world of smart home technology continues to evolve, the possibilities for creating age-friendly living spaces are limitless, offering a brighter and more secure future for seniors.

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.