Adapt your home to be livable for years
As people age, many choose to stay in their current homes near friends, family, places of worship and other places that have become integral parts of their lives. This is part of a growing trend toward “aging in place.” The term applies to those who want to live as they have in their current home for as long as possible.
As we age, our mobility and capabilities change. Steps can become a challenge. Our balance, vision, hearing and mental processes can deteriorate. We lose strength.
Other changes that can make aging in place easier:
Remove floor surfaces that could be slippery. Improve lighting in the house. Install a toilet riser seat. Install slide-out shelves in cabinets. Change cabinet knobs to D-shaped handles.
Change to LED lights for much longer bulb life and lower energy costs. Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms with a siren and a flashing light. Install battery-operated emergency lighting in hallways. Do things to reduce required home maintenance. And of course, install an emergency call system, especially if you live alone.
If you do a little planning and make a few modifications, your house can be your home for a long time.
William Hirsch, an architect, is the author of Designing Your Perfect House. Learn more at www.designingyourperfecthouse.com and www.about-home-design.com.
