Home modifications

Most people over 50 would prefer to age in a place of familiar comfort than move elsewhere. In-home care has become a positive alternative for many seniors. Most seniors feel more comfortable in their own environment. They would prefer the enjoyment of their own home but how can they age comfortably when their home environment has become unfriendly?

When familiar things such as stairs, high cabinets, bathtubs, and common areas act as obstacles and obstruct daily living, perhaps its time to consider a home modification.

Evaluating your needs

Before any changes are made to a home, individuals should evaluate your current and future needs. Evaluate every room in the home. Once you have checked all rooms and all areas. Make a checklist of all potential problems. Review your list, then seek solutions for your problem areas.

Home safety checklists are available to assist you with your initial review.

What is a home modification?

A home modification consists of alterations made to a home to accommodate the needs of aging people or people with various physical disabilities. Home modification is used for prevention and protection and provides comfort for individuals whose abilities are limited.

In some cases, depending on the individual’s needs, home modifications Tulsa might be considered renovations or home improvement.

Modifications and alterations made to a home specifically to make it more accessible for people with different physical abilities. This also includes aging individuals.

How home modification works

A home modification consists of a range of changes. The goal is to make the home comfortable as possible for individuals with different physical abilities. Alternations and repairs to the home varies on each individual personal needs.

Home modification for the elderly

home modifications Tulsa are assessed for individuals as they age. Many homes may not be equipped to house individuals as they age. Structural barriers can infringe upon the independence of an elderly individual. Modification makes it easier to go about their daily routines without assistance.

Home modification is sometimes necessary because many elderly adults live in single family homes. These homes were built over a period of time when physical accessibility was not a consideration. Therefore, home modification may be necessary.

As of today, there are very few building requirements concerning physical accessibility for single family homes. The incompatibility of a structure can make it very difficult or in some cases impossible to remain in the home as they grow older.

Without the modification in some cases the individual is forced to move to a retirement home. However, if the individual decides to stay, they may opt for a caretaker or hire a nurse. Which makes the modification a perfect choice for the individual.

Examples of a home modification

There’s a wide variety of home modifications Tulsa / renovations. Projects may vary from small to large, the cost also varies according to each modification project. Modification projects may consist of.

Easy to use fixtures on light switches.
Wheelchair ramps.
Grab bars or rails.
Larger digital displays on computers.
Stepless showers.
Rearranging furniture.
Walk-in tubs.
Stair lifts
Non-slip floors.
Widening external pathways.
Security systems.
Emergency alarms.
Curled carpet edges.

Estimated cost of home modifications.

Home modifications cost varies depending on the individual’s needs. Here are some common modification costs according to home advisor.

Wheelchair ramp $1,027-$5,700
Wider doorways $700-$2,500 per doorway
Height toilet $100-$1,600
Chair lift $1,500-$8,500
Grab bar $85-$300
Accessible shower $975-$22,000
Bathroom accessibility updates $13,000-$38,000
Full kitchen remodel $13,000-$38,000
Lower cabinets and sinks $1,500-$8,500
Elevator $2,500 $60,000

Basic low-cost modifications

Stairlift

A stairlift is a chair that runs along a motorized track, making it possible for an older adult to use the upper floors of the home without climbing stairs.

Seniors may consider installing one of these lifts to reduce the risk of injury. It also gives older adults an increased sense of independence.

Accessible doorhandles and cabinet pulls

Arthritis can cause pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. For seniors with Arthritis in their hands, these symptoms make it difficult to open doors, drawers, and handles.

Install accessible doorhandles and cabinet pulls to combat these problems. Accessible doorhandles allows seniors to open doors without having to grip knobs and twist them. Cabinet pulls have the same purpose. They also make it easier to open and close cabinets and drawers.

Bathroom modifications

Bathrooms are a common source for potential hazards. Wet floors, slippery tubs and showers, along with hard counters are just a few of the hazards present in the bathroom.

Simple modifications can make the bathroom a safe place for an older adult. Installing non-slip decal can make the floor a safer place. Adding a shower bench can also make the shower safe. Add handrailing near the toilet and sink. This may reduce the risk of falls.

Flooring

Older homes may have flooring hazards such as curled carpet edges or cracked tiles. To reduce the risk of falls, seniors should consider installing low impact flooring. Rubber and cork are good choices. Rubber and cork are soft and slip resistant. Also install, non-skid backing on the carpets. New flooring can make a big difference in any area of the home.

Technology can make aging safe and comfortable

Update thermostat

Smart thermostats allow for seniors to adjust the temperature without having to walk to turn the dial. They are also programmable which may help seniors avoid health issues caused by extreme temperatures.

Medical Alert Systems

Medical Alert Systems reduce the time it takes for an older adult to get help in an emergency. When the user pushes a button, the system alerts the local response center. The police, paramedics, and fire departments will be alerted immediately.

Specialized smoke alarms

Specialized fire alarms reduces the time it takes for an older person to get help. When the user pushes a button, the system will alert the local emergency response team.

Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology allows seniors 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 falls.

Basic prevention checks

Doors and windows

Make sure the doors and windows are easy to open and close, lock and unlock. Locks should be sturdy and easy to operate.

Doors and walkways

Doors should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers. Door locks should be sturdy, easy to lock and unlock, open and shut. A peephole is also an option.

Electrical outlets and switches

Power switches and lights should be easily accessible and easy to turn on and off. All electrical outlets should be covered, easy to reach, and properly grounded to prevent shocks. Extension cords should be in good condition and properly placed. Smoke detectors should be operational, and the batteries should be checked often. Telephones should be readily available.

The end goal

The end goal for home modification is intended to provide safety and independence for the aging person and people with disabilities. The objective is to provide a safe and independent living environment in the comfort of the individual’s own home.