How to Remodel a Home to Be Senior-friendly

While more Americans today are choosing to remain in their homes, as they grow older, the risks associated with aging are not always considered. Your dream house of 30 years ago might no longer be designed to meet your changing needs. Some of the modifications necessary to make your home senior-friendly could require an extensive home remodel, but there are some simple, inexpensive alterations, which can be made to help make your home environment safer. Read on to learn how to remodel a home to be senior-friendly.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Basic home modifications

1. Understand that barrier-free entryways make it easier for older adults who use a walker or wheelchair. Wider exterior and interior doorways allow for easier access. In addition, handrails should be installed for safety on both sides of steps whether indoors or outdoors.

2. Know that replacing a bathtub with a walk-in shower aids those with physical limitations. Installing elevated toilets, and mounting thick, sturdy grab bars makes it easier for individuals to stand up. Lowering the bathroom sink eventually might be required as well.

3. Large, lever-style door handles and lever handle faucets are relatively easier for older individuals to use. Lower cooking surfaces and kitchen counter-tops are recommended for easier access. D-shaped handles, which are easier to grasp, should be installed on all kitchen drawers and cabinet doors.

4. Walk-in closets with storage at varying heights make it easier to reach items you need. Closets should be well-lit for better visibility.

5. Rocker light switches and illuminated toggle switches make it easier for older adults to turn lights on and off.

6. Bright lighting throughout the home makes it safer for those who have failing eyesight. Add extra lighting in stairs and hallways where it can be difficult to move around. It’s also a good idea to install night lights where needed. Or you might want to consider sensor lights that turn on lights automatically.

Tips & Warnings

• The kitchen and the bathroom are the two areas in the house where serious accidents are most likely to occur.
• Recent reports show that the chances of dying from an accident sustained in the home increases significantly after the age of 65. But most of the accidents, which occur, could be prevented.

[LilacGirl]

on 5/3/2008 Again, some good ideas here.