Aging-In-Place Accessibility Solutions for Every Home
As people age or go through life changes that affect their ability to be mobile, big decisions have to be made. Often people will decide to move into retirement homes or facilities designed for those with accessibility issues. However, most people don’t want to leave the comfort and familiarity of home.
With the rising costs of healthcare and live-in facilities, leaving home may not be an option for some people. Luckily, the most cost-effective solution for accessibility is probably to modify the existing home to make things safe. Here are a few ideas from local experts about making the home safer and more user-friendly for those in different stages of life. By making these changes, families can get peace of mind knowing their loved ones are safe, comfortable, and independent.
Accessibility Fixes Around the House
Accessibility solutions that first come to mind are big projects, but the biggest impediments to those with mobility issues are often seemingly mundane things. They are easy fixes that can greatly increase the quality of life and independence for older adults or those with mobility needs.
The best place to start is to determine the need for space. Do walkers and wheelchairs need to fit through doorways? If so, widening the doorways can make a world of difference. Widening doors to the ADA-approved 32 inches is likely possible for every door in every home. Giving users that extra bit of space can make a big improvement.
Once doorways are widened, it’s time to think about door knobs. Standard round doorknobs are hard to use for people with accessibility problems. Instead, families should focus on lever-style door knobs that are more easily turned. Additionally, many custom modifications are available to make homes more accommodating based on a resident’s needs.
Accessible Bathrooms
Just because accessibility needs have changed, the need to carry out day-to-day activities has not. A hot bath or shower is necessary for everyone, regardless of mobility issues, but it can present a problem for some. After fixing up doorways and changing door knobs, it’s time to focus on bathrooms.
To successfully age in place, a person will need special washing facilities. These may include curbless showers with grab bars and seats or walk-in tubs. ADA-approved toilets and approved railings may also be necessary to complete bathroom renovations. These changes can make a massive difference in the lives of those who can’t get around as well but still want to do things by themselves.
Stair Accessibility Solutions
Before anyone can enter to use the widened doorways or ADA-compliant facilities, they must be able to make it through the front door and up any stairs outside of the home. Dealing with elevation changes can be a real issue, and most often, they can be solved by installing ramps at smaller elevation changes.
The main impediment to staying at home for many people is that they will have to deal with multi-level homes where their bedroom is upstairs. When these situations arise, stair lifts and stair elevators can help overcome this hurdle, allowing them to stay in the comfort of their homes longer.
About A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions
A-Plus Air Conditioning & Home Solutions is a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS). They believe that aging in place is a great comfort to many, and they can help everyone reach this goal. Call them today for accessibility and aging-in-place services in Austin, TX.
