With the aging of the 77-million baby boomer population, there are growing concerns about at-home care-taking options that can be solved with minor remodeling. For the elderly and disabled, simple daily tasks are a challenge. No one wants to send grandma away to a nursing home, and anyway, 80% of Americans over the age of 45 say they prefer to spend their later years in their own home. But how can you prep your house to accommodate the special 
needs of someone who has low mobility and dexterity and still wants to live independently?
There are several remodeling ideas to improve the accessibility of bathrooms and kitchens. It may seem daunting and pricey, but considering that assisted living can cost upwards of $60,000 per year, it?s a great investment for your family. If you have a special needs concern, chances are there is a simple home improvement solution?an easy fixture replacement can make a world of difference. Get creative and look at alternatives for standard installations! Here?s some food for thought:
Bathroom
This is the area of most concern. Bathrooms are slippery and dangerous, especially when bathtubs and toilets do not provide for easy access. One great option is to attach grab bars to the walls around the toilet or bathtub to prevent falling, or to consider a toilet safety frame, which is basically like handicap arms around the toilet seat. Non-slip flooring can replace tiles to prevent slips in the shower or the entire bathroom area. Toilet seat height and location can be adjusted for wheelchair access, and the same for the sink area?you can lower the height of the sink and remove below-sink cabinets.
If mobility is an issue, install a wheelchair-friendly shower without barriers so no one needs to step over any ledge. Install a seat (with padding!) for added comfort. If your loved ones prefer soaking, install a walk-in bathtub to minimize safety hazards. Bending or reaching during bathing can be cause for an injury, but adjusting the location of the faucet or showerhead, or considering a hand-held showerhead, is a simple solution.
Kitchen
The lowered countertops and below-sink storage cabinets in your kitchen can be adjusted just like the ones in the bathroom. For anyone with arthritis, installing a lever-handle or touch-sensitive faucet can make everyday tasks like washing hands, cleaning, and cooking a lot simpler. If you are concerned about the water temperature, anti-scald valves keep it under control. Rearrange the design of the counter space and cabinets so that it allows for wider clearance for wheelchairs and walkers.
These remodeling ideas are not just for seniors
Many people have begun to incorporate these fixtures into their home now to prepare for a future grandparent move-in or for their own old age. These options are great for any disabled person, and children, too.
In previous years, accessibility remodeling was very institutional-looking and had a hospital feel to it. But options have broadened to include different color schemes and finishes, and modern fixtures that actually make your home seem more like a spa, but with a more universal design. Call us at (513)234-5794 to talk about your accessibility concerns, and chances are there are unique solutions for you!
You can contact us at (513)445-6609 or by email at info@nixcoplumbing.com .
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This entry was posted on Monday, September 3rd, 2012 at 2:23 pm under Health and Such. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.Source: http://www.nixcoplumbing.com/2012/09/03/accessibility-for-the-elderly/
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