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Modifying your home to optimize safety
By Ken Potyczka, CAPS-Certified Aging in Place Builder
When it comes to con- tinuing to live in your home as you age,
it may be necessary to make home modifications to ensure you live safely and independently. According to the CDC,
approximately one third of older adults (age 65+) fall each year, and the risk only increases with age. It’s important to do what you can to prevent falls and accidents before they happen.
Be proactive–get an assessment now
of the potential adjustments you need to make to your home to help minimize your risk and maximize comfort.
When should you modify your home?
The goal is to prevent future problems. If you’ve noticed changes
in your ability to do things around the house, it’s time to look at the way it’s arranged. Your home needs to be set up for your safety and convenience.
If you’ve already suffered a fall, or are concerned about falling, you need to make changes immediately. To make this task easier, ask a family member or friend to help you make an assessment of your home.
What should I modify in the home?
Focus on creating a living space that encourages mobility and stability. Make sure you have good lighting and that all loose chords or wires are taped or tucked away to prevent tripping. Replace doorknobs with handles, install hand railings in hallways and step-downs, if necessary. Ensure floors are non-slip and free of throw rugs and clutter. Also, make sure commonly used items are conveniently placed and dangerous items (chemicals,
tools, etc.) are safely stored away.
Next, pay attention to the bathroom, commonly the most dangerous room in the house. To prevent falls, invest in a walk-in shower without glass doors, non-slip tub mats, a hand-held shower- head and a built-in bench. For added stability, install sturdy handlebars inside the shower and by the toilet. Set your home’s water tank temperature at 120° F to prevent burns. Also, all personal products (soap, toilet paper, etc.) should be within easy reach.
the expert
Finally, have a plan for emergency situations. Emergency and security systems and supplies (like medicines, food and water) should be included. Emergency contact information should be prominently displayed and easy
to read. Obtaining services like the One-Source Concierge Button from SameAddress can make connecting with emergency responders, 24/7, easy.
How much will it cost?
Minor home modifications and repairs could cost you anywhere from $100 to $2,000 but many of them are simple enough to have a handy family member or friend complete. For bigger projects, you’ll want to hire a professional con- tractor who is licensed, bonded and insured. Home modeling contractors often offer reduced or sliding rates based on your financial situation, so be sure to ask. You can also explore public and private funding options.
Your local senior center, veterans association or Area Agency on Aging may be able to help find funding for of your modification projects. Rebuilding Together is a national volunteer organi- zation that assists low-income seniors with home improvements. Visit their website at rebuildingtogether.org. If you have a disability, the IRS will let you claim some home modifications as a deduction. Be sure to mention this to your tax preparer, or you can search for state-specific tax credits, rebates and savings at energy.gov/savings.
A good source for identifying your options is The National Council on Independent Living Centers, which provides information on funding and referral services. Visit www.ncil.org for more information.
Why use a CAPS-Certified professional?
A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) has been trained with the essential skills to help you with your home modification decisions. CAPS service providers have the ability to identify potential adjustments to make your home safe. The CAPS-certified designation offers reassurance that the professional assisting you will help you make the best choices to enable you to live safely and securely at home.
Get a FREE CAPS-certified home
assessment
SameAddress, a program of the Area Agency on Aging 1-B, provides in-home care and concierge services for seniors who choose to age at home. They offer a free home assessment to evaluate your needs and suggest ways to optimize your living situation.To learn more about SameAddress call 1-866-SENIOR-1 (1-866-736-4671) or visit www.sameaddress.com.