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As the baby boomer generation ages, it becomes crucial to proactively plan home modifications for seamless "aging in place," and this planning should commence sooner rather than later. According to research conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90 percent of seniors express a desire to remain in their current residences as they grow older. Are your parents sharing a similar sentiment? To ensure the creation of the most comfortable and secure environment, a well-thought-out strategy for modifications is essential.
In aiding the planning process, we're presenting eight key home upgrades under the banner of SS Handyman, designed to assist your family in caring for Mom and Dad during their retirement years within the familiar confines of their own home!
1.) Replace Cabinet and Door Handles
A swift and uncomplicated task involves substituting cabinet hardware and doorknobs with D handles. Conventional knobs can be cumbersome for individuals grappling with arthritis, and the turning action may pose a challenge. D handles offer a user-friendly option for people of all capabilities to effortlessly operate their cabinets or doors, while maintaining a stylish appearance in the hardware. This minor adjustment ensures a smooth pace in daily life for those experiencing a bit of stiffness due to aging, with the assistance of SS Handyman.
2.) Install Grab Bars and Railings Throughout the Home
Usually positioned in the shower or close to the toilet, grab bars are uncomplicated tools that can have a significant impact. They aid in steadying individuals as they move about or provide a secure handhold for a brief respite. Proper installation of grab bars is essential to ensure they can securely support the weight of the person using them, highlighting the significance of enlisting the services of a skilled professional, such as SS Handyman. A knowledgeable expert can also assist in integrating grab bars seamlessly into the home's aesthetics, transforming them from utilitarian necessities to stylish decorative elements. While incorporating grab bars throughout your residence, it's worth considering the addition of handrails to your staircases as well.
3.) Make Showering Convenient and Safe
In addition to a grab bar, incorporating a corner seat into the shower enhances safety measures. This seat provides a secure place for individuals who may feel unsteady on their feet to sit and unwind while enjoying the soothing flow of steamy water. Furthermore, these seats serve a dual purpose. Not only do they offer a comfortable spot for relaxation, but they also serve as convenient perches for holding shampoo bottles and a support for propping up each leg during shaving. It is advisable to consider upgrading the showerhead to a handheld version, and attaching a wand makes it particularly convenient for effectively rinsing soap from challenging-to-reach areas.
4.) Add a Seat Near the Stairs
Sometimes, everyone deserves a break. Climbing stairs can be exhausting, especially for those with achy joints. Allow Mom and Dad a chance to relax and take a break by incorporating an appealing bench in areas that involve extra effort. Placing a bench at the midway point on the staircase landing creates a convenient resting spot. Another ideal location for a bench is the front porch. If space is limited on the porch, consider placing one just inside the front door. Offering individuals the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate can potentially prevent a serious slip or fall.
5.) Raise the Toilet Seats
Elevating the toilet seat is crucial in averting potential mishaps and avoiding discomfort in the restroom. According to the National Institute on Aging, one out of every three individuals aged 65 or above experiences a fall annually, with a significant number of incidents occurring in the bathroom. Incorporating an elevated toilet seat along with grab bars can offer a sense of security, enhance safety, and provide comfort in a space known for its potential hazards.
6.) Make the Kitchen Slip-Free
As per the National Safety Council, the primary cause of unintentional fatalities at home for individuals aged 65 and above is falling. Numerous incidents of falls take place in the kitchen, and the reasons are apparent – challenges such as transporting heavy pans and undetected spills on the floor. Enhance kitchen safety by contemplating the installation of non-reflective, anti-slip tiles, or low-pile carpet for an environment that is secure, effortless to uphold, and straightforward to clean. Explore how our SS Handyman professionals can assist you with such kitchen improvement projects.
7.) Widen Doorways to 36 Inches, at Minimum
Narrow doorways pose a significant challenge for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or those assisting your parents in their daily activities, such as family members or a nurse. According to ADA compliance regulations, the minimum door width for wheelchair accessibility is 32 inches, with an ideal width of 48 inches. Undertaking the task of widening the doorway is a crucial home improvement, and it requires the expertise of a professional, such as SS Handyman. Seize this opportunity to not only address the door width but also consider lowering light switches that may need rerouting during the process. Lowering light switches below the standard 48 inches benefits individuals in wheelchairs, facilitating easier access to the switches.
8.) Install Pull-Down/Pull-Out Shelves in the Kitchen and Bathroom
The incorporation of pull-down and pull-out shelves can offer diverse benefits to your elderly parents. SS Handyman suggests that installing shelves that can be pulled down from elevated cabinets can alleviate accessibility challenges for individuals using wheelchairs, and incorporating pull-out shelves in lower cabinets minimizes the necessity to bend over extensively. Another effective storage enhancement is the installation of a "Lazy Susan" in a corner cabinet, facilitating easier access to items without undue strain.
How Much Do These Projects Cost?
For the most precise job estimate, we require additional details about your project. For instance, the quantity of cabinet knobs for the upgrade, the number of bathrooms your parents possess, and the kitchen's square footage are essential. Your local SS Handyman is prepared to assist. Reach out by phone or request service online to initiate the process.
Whether you and your parents are situated just a couple of blocks away or separated by different time zones, it's crucial to locate a trustworthy handyman to address their home improvement and maintenance requirements as they age. Inquire about our Done Right Guarantee.
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