Published: Saturday, May 11, 2020
Experts stress the importance for modifications that keep homes safe and accessible.
Experts stress that modifications are necessary to make homes safe and accessible. A majority of Americans want to stay in their home as long as they can. Here are some tips from AARP and the National Institute on Aging, who offer a free guide that includes practical suggestions for older people living independently.
At least one doorway on the exterior should be step-free. Consider a ramp if it is not possible.
Install a bench to remove shoes and to place items on while you lock or unlock the door.
Install a walk in shower with a bench, non-skid mats or decals to help prevent accidents.
To make it easier to rinse off while sitting, add a handheld nozzle to your shower head.
Install grab bars near the toilet and on the wall of the shower.
Install a higher toilet or a toilet riser.
Consider plugging in an LED nightlight.
Create a bedroom at the main floor by converting a den or office.
If you need to, purchase bed risers. If necessary, purchase bed risers.
A bed that can be adjusted will provide you with extra comfort.
Buy a stove that has safety features such as automatic shutoffs or an alert system to let you know when the burners are on.
Move major appliances so that they are easier to reach.
For better accessibility, add slide-out drawers and trays to existing cabinets.
Install a sensor or light-touch faucet. This is much easier to operate than a faucet that has knobs and handles.
To make a room easier to navigate, get rid of all the furniture and clutter.
To make standing and sitting easier, replace chairs with armrests.
Avoid furniture that has sharp corners. They can cause cuts and bruises when bumped against.
Do not put cords under rugs. Instead, hide them away from pathways.
If you use area rugs, they should be attached to the floor using a rug tape or non-slip mat.
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The Administration for Community Living, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, operates a website https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Index.aspx and a hotline ( 1-800-677-1116 ) for people looking for local services or resources.
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Source: ABC News