Solutions To Adapt Your Home For Changing Needs

Disabilities, age and certain illnesses leave us clinging for answers when it comes to modifying our living environment to make the conditions safe and user friendly. At any season of life we could be facing the challenges limited mobility, loss of stability and decreased use of motor skills brings.  When this is the case it is evident that changes within the home environment will need to be made to encourage continued independence.  

When born with an illness or disability that lessens the skills individuals have changes are made right away to the home environment.  The learning curbs to adapt to the surroundings are simpler for those individuals who are raised adapting to the home space.  However, when the disability is sudden it is harder to change the behaviors that already exist.  Instead modifications need to be put into place to ease the existent behaviors.  

This is especially true for individuals who suddenly find they are using a wheelchair as their main form of maneuvering.  The adjustment is huge.  Mobility is suddenly not an afterthought.  It takes careful planning and maneuvering to navigate a space that was not designed for use with a wheelchair.  This is why many individuals who find themselves in this exact situation turn to handicap construction experts.  

Certain changes within the home environment make it more readily usable to wheelchairs.  One item that needs to be addressed is the entrance and exit of the home.  It is important that handicap wheelchair ramps be installed in more than one area of the home for increased safety.  Wheelchair ramps can consist of simple threshold ramps or elaborate porches that contain a ramp for wheelchair users and stairs for those with leg function.  Wheelchair ramps are also helpful for individuals with knee ailments.

Another area of the home that is especially difficult to maneuver for those with mobility and stability issues is the bathroom.  Bathroom safety solutions run the spectrum. The installation of bathroom safety aides is a fairly common job.  Bathroom safety bars can help with getting in and out of the tub, off and on to the toilet and for stability around the sink basin.  Other options include showers designed to for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility to be able to enter direct without any type of ledge to hinder the individual.  The bathroom area is the number one cause of injury.  It is of utmost importance to seek out handicap construction professional to help with the installation of safety aides.

Many times individuals do not consider future needs when purchasing a home.  This is true when purchasing a home with stairs.  It is not always feasible upon injury, illness or aging to up and move to a home without stairs.  Often the option includes adjusting the stairs to fir the new need.  This need can be met with a stair chair lift installation.  Whether needing to access the basement or top floor a stair chair lift can be installed to fit the individuals need. 

As with any renovation it is wise to seek the advice and assistance of a professional in the industry. With an increased senior population in areas such as Florida and Michigan professionals in the handicap construction industry are abundant.  If you are unable to locate a private handicap construction professional in your area contact state officials or local social workers who can help facilitate meeting your needs. 

Safety At Home Is The Number One Priority For Aging Adults

Safety is the number one factor seniors and their caregivers face when hoping to live within their homes instead of moving into nursing homes or assisted living facilities.  There are a number of safety items that can help to ensure a seniors safety as the age in place.  Handicap construction contractors can be hired to come into a home and revamp obstacles known to cause injury or harm to older adults.  Simple bathroom safety aides, handicap wheel chair ramps and room renovations can ensure the safest possible environment, within their homes, for seniors to age in place. 

As adults age little accommodations should be done to keep up with their changing needs.  This preemptive effort will alleviate a complete over haul and will allow the senior to feel more at ease with the changes occurring to them.  If caregivers come in and completely over take a home it is liable to cause a sense of uneasiness that can be avoided.  Below is a list of things to begin looking at as a caregiver of seniors approaching their golden years.

Flooring:

                The most common injury reported with senior citizens is from falls.  In order to prevent the most common falls it is important to address issues that arise due to flooring.  It is important that all rugs, runners and mats are removed from the home.  Some people recommend using sticky tape and slip-resistant backings however the safest home improvement for seniors is to remove them all together.

Bathroom:

                It is important that caregivers take a detailed look at the bathroom when thinking about the safety of loved ones.  Seniors living on their own will need to take care of all of their hygiene needs.  With this in mind it is important that the space is user friendly.  First check that bathtubs and showers are equipped with bath seats and non-skid bath mats.  The tub surface becomes slick when wet and soapy which could easily result in a fall.

                Bathroom safety aides can be purchased for all areas within the space.  Grab bars should be in place within the shower and around the toilet area.  Another suggestion that helps many seniors is the addition of a high rise toilet seat.  This makes getting up from a seated position more comfortable on the knees and other joints.  Also, turn the water temperature down to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Kitchen:

                The kitchen is an area that concerns many caregivers.  There are many obstacles within the space.  It is important to prevent fires.  Ensure towels and combustibles are kept a distance away from stoves.  Place a sign with big bold letters exiting the kitchen to remind seniors to double check the stove to make sure it is off and that everything within the kitchen is back into the proper space.

                It is important to start the shift of everyday items into the lower shelves.  This eliminates the risk seniors take on when using a stool to grab something overhead.  Utensils and cooking aides should be kept within reach. The kitchen is a scary place for seniors.  It may be that eventually the caregiver sees fit to provide prepackaged food to be warmed in a microwave in disposable containers.  This alleviates the preparation of meals, use of the stove and utensils.  

Living Rooms:

                Chances are that most of your loved ones time will be spent in the family room.  Create an open environment that wheelchairs and walkers can navigate with ease. Check cords to make sure they are tucked in against walls and away from areas that they could become tangled within senior’s feet, wheelchairs and walkers.

General:

·         Check to make sure lighting is adequate throughout the home and that light switches are easily accessible.

·          Telephones should be in every room of the house.  Another aspect to think about is a cell phone small enough that can be placed in a pocket to be carried with them.

·         Medication should be clearly labeled and accessible.  Label containers with clear instruction.

Aging is the one thing all people have in common.  Clearly we will get older.  It is important to remember that as we age we will want to be treated with respect as our caregivers prepare us for our aging needs.  Not all seniors we go smoothly, renovating their homes.  Many feel they are just fine and totally capable of living as they have been.  As caregivers we understand as they age their needs will change.  Age in place remodeling should be done in a very caring, supportive and non invasive manner.  This will help keep a healthy balance to the wants and needs of aging adults.  

Home Alterations Seeking To Create Independence for Seniors and Handicap

Independent living is a must for many seniors and physically challenged individuals.  When you are using a wheelchair to access a home or vehicle that is not designed for those purposes the challenges may be a bit overwhelming.  It is important that individuals build and put in place wheelchair access points with the use of ramps or lifts to ensure access for wheelchair users.  

In order for bi-level access for wheelchair users wheelchair lifts are installed to make movement from one level to another simpler.  Chair lifts are also another option.  The disadvantage to this is that a wheelchair would need to be placed on each level.  This fixture allows total independence within the home for users of wheelchairs. 

Another room that is often brought up when it comes to independent living and access in the home is the bathroom.  Privacy is a continued desire for individuals in wheelchairs or not.  Access independently is a must.  Showering, bathing, hygiene needs and toilet issues should all be accessed independently.  This is a freedom as caregivers that should never be compromised.  There is something liberating about caring for one’s self.  Many fixtures exist to help keep bathrooms accessible and safe.  Bathroom safetyaids range from a threshold ramp to accommodate a variance in flooring to showers that individuals can roll directly into.  Counters are adjusted to fit the changing need, grab bars installed and high toilet put in to accommodate the different needs within the household environment.

The goal in home safety modifications such as wheelchair ramps and bathroom safety aids is to put individuals within the home in a comfortable, safe environment that is home to all occupants.  Ramps are a major area in providing home access to wheelchair users.  There are several different needs to fit the various uses one may be needed.

As mentioned earlier threshold ramps, the smallest of handicap wheelchair ramps, is the smallest of access ramps.  They are simple to use, easy to install and provide ease in transition between the doors and other raised areas.  They come in a variety of materials such as rubber, aluminum and wood.

Portable folding ramps are small, lightweight ramps similar to a threshold ramp.  These ramps are meant to collapse and be carried with individuals to help with access into rooms that have a small platform or areas with just one or two smaller steps.  Portable folding ramps can even be purchase for travel and put into a suitcase.  Technology advances are coming along in regards to access for individuals using wheelchairs.

Modular ramps are another option if an individual is looking for a fix that is permanent but that could easily move with them.  This is an option for more temporary, long term living arrangements that require a handicap wheelchair ramp access. 

Options within the wheelchair ramp industry are abundant. A little research into a client’s situation and needs should give any handicap wheelchair ramp seller and installer a clear picture of the ramps that should be installed.  The freedom of mobility and independence is a gift caregivers can give to their loved ones with the use of a few well thought of home safety modifications such as bathroom safety aids and wheelchair ramps.

Home Alterations Seeking To Create Independence for Seniors and Handicap

Independent living is a must for many seniors and physically challenged individuals.  When you are using a wheelchair to access a home or vehicle that is not designed for those purposes the challenges may be a bit overwhelming.  It is important that individuals build and put in place wheelchair access points with the use of ramps or lifts to ensure access for wheelchair users.  

In order for bi-level access for wheelchair users wheelchair lifts are installed to make movement from one level to another simpler.  Chair lifts are also another option.  The disadvantage to this is that a wheelchair would need to be placed on each level.  This fixture allows total independence within the home for users of wheelchairs. 

Another room that is often brought up when it comes to independent living and access in the home is the bathroom.  Privacy is a continued desire for individuals in wheelchairs or not.  Access independently is a must.  Showering, bathing, hygiene needs and toilet issues should all be accessed independently.  This is a freedom as caregivers that should never be compromised.  There is something liberating about caring for one’s self.  Many fixtures exist to help keep bathrooms accessible and safe.  Bathroom safetyaids range from a threshold ramp to accommodate a variance in flooring to showers that individuals can roll directly into.  Counters are adjusted to fit the changing need, grab bars installed and high toilet put in to accommodate the different needs within the household environment.

The goal in home safety modifications such as wheelchair ramps and bathroom safety aids is to put individuals within the home in a comfortable, safe environment that is home to all occupants.  Ramps are a major area in providing home access to wheelchair users.  There are several different needs to fit the various uses one may be needed.

As mentioned earlier threshold ramps, the smallest of handicap wheelchair ramps, is the smallest of access ramps.  They are simple to use, easy to install and provide ease in transition between the doors and other raised areas.  They come in a variety of materials such as rubber, aluminum and wood.

Portable folding ramps are small, lightweight ramps similar to a threshold ramp.  These ramps are meant to collapse and be carried with individuals to help with access into rooms that have a small platform or areas with just one or two smaller steps.  Portable folding ramps can even be purchase for travel and put into a suitcase.  Technology advances are coming along in regards to access for individuals using wheelchairs.

Modular ramps are another option if an individual is looking for a fix that is permanent but that could easily move with them.  This is an option for more temporary, long term living arrangements that require a handicap wheelchair ramp access. 

Options within the wheelchair ramp industry are abundant. A little research into a client’s situation and needs should give any handicap wheelchair ramp seller and installer a clear picture of the ramps that should be installed.  The freedom of mobility and independence is a gift caregivers can give to their loved ones with the use of a few well thought of home safety modifications such as bathroom safety aids and wheelchair ramps.

The Future Of Home Construction With Accessible Living Solutions

Considering that accidents happen at a fairly consistent rate it is probable that at some point a disability will hit with in the home that reduces a person’s mobility.  When an accident occurs it is likely individuals can find themselves dependent upon the use of a wheelchair, walker or scooter device.  Also, as people age the simple act of maneuvering around the home becomes trickier.  Often times these are the points in life that it is realized the space within the home and accesses in and out of the home are compromised and need to be updated. 

It is rare that a home is built with the limitations handicaps and aging in place bring.  Most traditional builders do not build with the foresight that narrow doors and an abundance of stairs might eventually be difficult for maneuverability.  Builders don’t build with questions such as “How would I access this narrow door?” or “How would I access this stairway?” with the same thinking as someone with a handicap or some years under their belt.  Consumers don’t often purchase homes thinking about the golden years or the what if’s accident bring. 

Accessible living solutions within the home is an industry in which is being grown out of a need that has not been filled with in the home construction industry.  Remodels of this magnitude look at all aspect of aging and handicap needs.  Handicap accessible renovations look into home modifications that make the difficulties aging and handicaps bring and work to lessen if not eliminate them.  Enhancements will improve not only daily life but overall safety as well.   

Aging in place is becoming a more viable option for seniors and their loved ones.  Many times people would rather not move late in life and prefer the idea of maintaining independence and caring for themselves.  As long as caregivers can keep them safe with simple modifications this option helps many dreams of independent living a reality.  The same is true when you think of individuals in which have been handicapped naturally or accidently.  Handicap is not a synonym for unable to.  In fact it often makes one more determined to be independent.

This was true when I broke my ankle.  I was handicapped by the fact I could not walk.  Crutches hurt, wheelchairs worked well outside of my home however inside the home was a complete disaster.  I can only imagine the same is true for others with disabilities. 

Everyone’s needs are a bit unique.  Some such as me only need to meet a temporary need while others need permanent solutions to everyday dilemmas.  It is important for us to be able to care for ourselves.  Privacy is a premium within the bathroom and dressing areas. Handicap construction teams come into homes and meet with clients to access their needs and values.  This in turn allows them to seek out areas modifications are necessary and ones that are not with accessible living solutions. 

A prediction for the future with life spans increasing is that awareness begins within the construction industry.  Homes will be seen with easier access in and out, wider doors will become standard and open floor plans will be on the rise.  It is also important to note that homes will be built with multiple bathrooms in which at least one is built with shower access that does not involve a traditional tub.  Small modifications such as these will allow the next generation to age in place with less issues then what faces elderly and handicap individuals today. 

Bathroom Safety For Seniors

The main concern in seniors interested in aging in place is their safety.  It is important for us as caregivers to research safety modifications to improve the safety in each room that they will be using.  Bathroom safety is of utmost importance.  The bathroom is the room in a home in which most accidents occur.  With this in mind it is important to realize the odds increase for an accident when seniors are involved.  The lack of balance and slower motor skills increases the odds ten-fold for an accident to occur.  Thankfully there are many options to increase the safety for loved ones while allowing them to age in place.

Most modifications in the bathroom can be done with just a bit of forward thinking.  Many home modification companies exist to make sure age in place modifications are done correctly. The important part of the equation is to look at the space, evaluate the changes that need to be put in place and upgrade the space to create the most efficient, hazard free space possible for your loved one.

Safety modifications can be done to fit all budgets and safety needs.  Needs may arise slowly and can be addressed as they come up while other situations will require a complete overhaul from the start.  An evaluation will determine the needs of your loved ones in comparison with the space.  This way a plan can be drawn up in order to create a safe and sufficient space. As your loved one ages it is in their best interest to start adding remodeling that favors aging in place.  This is a suggestion to broach with compassion, care and understanding.  Many older loved ones don’t like to face the fact they are aging and might eventually not have the mobility they see in themselves currently.

Some simple safety modifications are;

·         Extra lighting is always a good investment.  It is especially important at night when visibility is low.  Motion lighting is readily available and is helpful for those using walkers who are using their hands to maneuver.

·         Rugs are incredibly common in bathrooms.  For people who are aging they are incredibly dangerous and easy to get caught up in.  Remove them for their safety.  Use an anti-slip mat for the exit of the shower to avoid slipping on tile.  A texture tile is now available and can help prevent the slick surfaces that tile normally represent.

·         Faucets are another area of concern.  Make sure to remove hard to turn faucets in favor of levered ones.  It is also incredibly important to purchase faucets that clearly mark hot and cold.  Many bathroom accidents occur from scalding.  In providing bathroom safety for a senior it is also necessary to check the temperature on the hot water tank.

·         Original toilets can be modified with the addition of a portable high rise seat.  If more permanent modifications can be done it is advisable.  Higher rising toilets can be bought and installed.  Adding safety grab bars to the side and front of the toilet area helps seniors gain their balance.

·         Tub and shower safety is incredibly important.  There are several temporary modifications that can be used and many permanent ones as well.  If the situation calls for budget friendly, temporary solutions tub chairs, transfer benches and grab bars can be installed to promote a safe entrance and exit from the tub.  If more permanent renovations can be done it would be wise to invest in a barrier free entry tub or shower. 

It is easy to enter into a new situation and go overboard with modifications that are unnecessary.  This is why it is important to contact an accessible alterations company to evaluate the situation and recommend necessary adjustments to the area.  This is true for all areas of the home and especially important in the bathroom where many hazards exist for loved ones.