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Some Changes to Consider When you Age in Your Home

Posted On : May-11-2013 | seen (547) times | Article Word Count : 512 |

Many seniors have the goal to stay in their own home as long as possible, however in most cases, there are somehome modifications are an absolute must to make that possible. But what are those modifications you are needed?
Many seniors have the goal to stay in their own home as long as possible, however in most cases, there are some home modifications are an absolute must to make that possible. But what are those modifications you are needed? Every person is different, but here is a quick guide can help you decide where to look.

Do a Walk-Through

Before you can actually decide which modifications you want to undertake, it’s best to do a quick walk-through to decide what really needs to be done. As you go through the home, you’ll want to do a room by room assessment and look at several things. First, consider safety. Make certain that there’s nothing in the room that actually poses a safety hazard to the individual. Also, make certain the person can move around the room and perform any necessary tasks.

You will also want to look at accessibility. Things like light switches, doors, cabinets, and outlets should be both easy to reach and negotiate. Additionally, think about adaptability in each room. What can be adapted so that the person can move easily within the room and be more productive while there?

The key is to ensure that everything in each room truly works for the owner. While it may be as simple as organization, you may also need to get a contractor involved to make some changes.

Common Upgrades

Wondering what the most common changes for aging in place are? Here’s an overview of the three most popular.

1. Bathroom Remodeling – The bathroom is a huge source of danger for many seniors, and with good reason. There’s just so much that can go wrong. Typical modifications here include walk-in showers, grab bars, sliding shower nozzles, therapy tubs, and even lower sinks to ensure they’re wheelchair accessible.
2. Wheelchair Ramps – It’s rare to find a home that is already wheelchair friendly, but when seniors reach that point, wheelchair ramps are the first thing that has to be considered. From getting into and out of the home to eliminating those few steps here or there, wheelchair ramps are a very common way to help seniors age in place.
3. Kitchen Remolding –Like the bathroom, the kitchen can be a source of fear for many. The stove controls have to be very easy to use. The kitchen rugs can make slipping fairly easy. Faucets can be tough to reach, and cabinets can be hard to open. Addressing all of these issues through a comprehensive remodel is an absolute must when working with seniors.

It is more than possible to live within the home and age in place gracefully, but often some changes have to be made before that is an option. Adding Universal Design Principals makes a home more livable for all and makes it more appealing when it is time to sell. Done right, Universal Design elements are desirable and value enhancing.

Review the home carefully and hire a certified aging in place builder or contractor to make it a reality.

Article Source : http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Some Changes to Consider When you Age in Your Home_264640.aspx

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Article Source: AIPCustomBuilders.com

Keywords : AIPCustomBuilders.com, most common changes for aging, home modifications,

Category : Home and Family : Home and Family

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