As we all grow older, our physical and cognitive abilities change, making it challenging to maintain independence at home.
It’s essential for older people living in the house to go through each level of the house and evaluate potential hazards and barriers that might affect daily activities.
Here are some crucial factors to consider for each level:
Main Floor: The Heart of Your Home
Accessibility in Your Current Home
- Wide Doorways and Hallways: Ensure at least 32 inches of clear width for doorways and 36 inches for hallways.
- Stair Lifts and Ramps: Consider installing a stair lift or ramp for easier access to upper floors or the main entrance.
- Flooring and Lighting: Opt for non-slip flooring and ample natural light, supplemented with bright, easily accessible light switches. Toggle switches are an easy alternative.
- Safety Features: Install grab bars in hallways and bathrooms, and ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are in working order.
Everyday Living on the First Floor
- Open Floor Plan: An open space design minimizes obstacles and facilitates movement.
- Essential Rooms on the Main Level: Your master bedroom, full bath, and laundry should be on the first floor to reduce the need to go up and down stairs.
- Furniture and Storage: Choose comfortable furniture with good support and ensure adequate storage is within easy reach.
- Adaptive Equipment as Needed: There are many products that can help to make your home safer and easier to live in. Items such as shower chairs, residential elevators, a wall oven, lever handles, a curbless walk-in shower and many more.
A professional health care provider such as an Occupational Therapist or Aging In Place Specialist can help you to determine and design what would be the best tools for you and your home.
Upper Levels: Adapting for Accessibility
Making the Upper Floors Safe
- Stair Safety: If a stair lift isn’t feasible, ensure handrails are sturdy and extend beyond the first and last steps.
- Bedrooms and Bathrooms: As I mentioned earlier relocate the master suite to the main level, if possible. If not, ensure the bedroom and bathroom on the upper floors are equipped with accessible showers or walk-in tubs, grab bars, and raised toilet seats.
- Alert Devices: One important safety tool that I recommend to everyone is to install an Amazon Alexa device in every room of the house. This makes it so very easy to call for help just by using your voice.
Additional Features for Comfort
- Climate Control: Install easy-to-use thermostats to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is especially important for older homes that may have varying temperatures throughout.
Additional Modifications and Features
Exterior Considerations: Safe Access to Your Home
- Main Entrance Accessibility: Ensure there are wheelchair ramps or stair lifts where necessary.
- Walkways and Patios: Use non-slip surfaces and adequate lighting to prevent falls.
Embracing Technology and Automation
- Smart Home Systems: Automate lighting, thermostats, and appliances for convenience and safety.
- Voice-Activated Assistants: These can help in controlling various aspects of the house and in emergency situations. Again, I recommend an Amazon Alexa device.
Universal Design Principles: Making Your Home Future-Proof
- Adaptable Design Features: Lever-operated door handles, adjustable countertops, adjustable beds, lift chairs and ample space for mobility aids are essential for a home that adapts to your stages of life.
Resources and Recommendations: Where to Find Help
- Certified Aging-In-Place Specialists (CAPS): These professionals can provide tailored advice for home modifications.
- Financial Assistance Programs: Look into programs that can help fund necessary home improvements.
Call to Action: Taking the Next Steps
- Downloadable Checklist: A free printable version of this checklist can be a handy reference.
