Aging-In Place : Simple Modifications for Homes
What exactly is the term aging in place? The U.S. Center of control prevention defines aging in place as the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably regardless of age, income, or ability. The concept of aging in place generally refers to the phenomena of older adults remaining in their homes, and communities as they age. A majority of seniors state that they would like to stay in their homes, being the most desirable thanks to being able to retain their independence and stay in their communities. Elderly individuals can age in place successfully when they have adequate resources and accessibility to stay in their homes such as home modifications, housekeeping services, transport services, and social services.
The best time to think about aging in place Tulsa is while you are still able to make important life impacting decisions.
Considering your needs and preparing for the future
The first step to think about is the kind of help that you need currently and the help you may need in the future. Planning ahead also helps give you time to modify your home to meet your needs as you age. Most seniors would prefer to grow old in their own home and maintain their independence as long as possible. However, living at home as you age requires many considerations and careful planning. Older adults and their families have concerns about a vast number of issues related to aging in place Tulsa. Some obstacles may include personal care, household chores, meals, transportation, grooming, bathroom assistance and other health issues. But one of the most important parts for planning for the future to age in place, is to make sure that your home is safe and accessible for you to live in as you grow older.
Simple Modifications to improve Home Safety
Home modifications as you age in place are often made because the home may not be sufficiently accessible for the aging individual. Structural barriers can infringe upon the independence of an elderly individual as they age in place. Modification makes it easier to go about their daily routine without assistance.
It is important to start with a home safety check to determine exactly what modifications will be needed to make the home as safe as possible. Make sure to make a list of each area of the home, including the outside area and assess some potential changes that can be made.
Here are some simple modifications that can improve the safety and accessibility of a home.
Proper lighting – Lighting is very important to ensure that seniors can see where they are going. It may seem obvious but ensure that the home has sufficient lighting. Older individuals may struggle to see potential tripping hazards in low lighting or misjudge their step more than other individuals.
Walk-In Showers and Walk-In Tubs – Seniors can have difficulty stepping up into a tub or a shower, especially if they have balance problems or mobility issues. The bathing unit also can be a potential fall hazard from the wet surface. Walk-In Showers and Walk-In tubs can be fitted with no-slip flooring in order to prevent these types of falls and provide an ease of accessibility for seniors because of their low ledge entry points.
Installing Grab Bars – Grab bars around the toilet and around the shower can help to provide an older individual with stability, and support while standing, they can also assist with leveraging for a senior to pull themselves up from a sitting position.
Handrails and proper lighting for stairwells – Stairwells should be fitted with a secure handrail on both sides and have proper lighting to ensure that a senior knows where they are stepping. Ensure that the stairway remains free of clutter and obstructions that may serve as tripping hazards.
Necessary items should be easy to reach – Reorganize kitchen items so that anything that the senior uses regularly is within their reach. Place items on lower shelves so that elderly individuals do not have to reach upwards, as that may potentially cause a loss of balance. Lowering necessary items onto lower shelves can also prevent the use of a step stool, which can in turn lower the chances of a fall.
Properly arrange furniture – Rearranging furniture is a simple task but potentially very helpful. Furniture should not be sticking past doorways or halls or be blocking any pathways.
Electrical outlets and switches – Power switches should be easy to turn on and off. Extension cords must be in good condition and properly placed against walls and away from open areas as they can be a major tripping hazard. Electrical outlets should be easy to reach and properly grounded to prevent shock.
Remove throw rugs – Throw rugs are a potential fall risk and should be removed. Seniors sometimes get their foot caught underneath the rug and can suffer a fall as a result. Even if the rug is held down, the elevation change could disrupt a senior’s balance.
Drawers and dressers – Cabinets, dressers, and drawers should have designs with handles on them. Knobs and latches can be difficult for individuals with arthritis to operate, which is a common issue that many older individuals face.
Doors and Windows – make sure the windows are easy to open and close, lock and unlock. Locks should be sturdy, yet easy to operate. Doors should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or a walker.
Consider Smart Technology Devices
A home modification consists of a wide range of changes. The goal is to make the home as comfortable as possible as you age in place. Alterations and repairs to the home may vary on each individual’s personal needs.
Home modifications are intended to provide safety and independence for aging in place Tulsa individuals. The goal is to provide a safe, independent and comfortable environment as you age in place. You may consider installing smart home technology devices such as
- Updating Thermostats and Smoke Alarms
- Medical Alert Systems
- Specialized Smoke Alarms
- Smart Home Technology
These devices allow individuals to control lights, locks, security cameras, and appliances remotely. This eliminates the need to get up and down frequently, which may reduce the risk of falling or injury.
Many of these modifications can be done to a home to immediately improve the safety while others may be simple but require a little more work, such as installing new handles on dressers. Overall, home modifications for aging-in place is a personal, ongoing project, that may change with your ever growing needs.