"Aging in place" is the phenomenon that describes the ability of older people to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible. Those "age in place" will not need to move from their current residence to obtain the support services needed in response to their changing needs.
Baby Boomers
Research shows that baby boomers' expectations of how they will receive care differ from those of their parents' generation. Overwhelmingly, they will seek assistance in their own homes and are less likely to move into congregational settings.
Why do many seniors prefer to age in place?
Retirement homes, for many, represent a loss of freedom and a reduced quality of life.
On-site inspections for aging in place.
Inspectors can recommend home fixes and adaptations to improve the maneuverability, accessibility and safety of older occupants.
Appliances:
Refrigerator and freezer side by side; wall or side swing oven; easy to read controls; raised front loading washer and dryer; raised dishwasher with control buttons; kitchens that feature electric ranges with level burners for safe transfer between burners.
Bathroom:
folding seat installed in the shower; adjustable shower heads with flexible hose; at least one wheelchair accessible bathroom on the main floor; reinforcements in the walls around the bath, shower, shower seat and toilet for the installation of grab bars; if a standing shower is used in the master bathroom, it is spacious and free of curbs; low tub; toilet higher than the standard toilet; wall-hung washbasin with knee room; and non-slip flooring in the bathroom and shower.
Counters:
base cabinet with flap trays; folding shelves; wall bracket and predisposition for adjustable and / or variable height worktops and removable bases; upper wall units with a height lower than the conventional one; shelf for supporting dishes next to or in front of all appliances. Exterior: Low maintenance exterior (vinyl, brick, etc.); and low-maintenance shrubs and plants.
Entrance:
sensor light at the continuous entrance of the exterior focused on the lock of the front door; non-slip floor at the entrance; accessible path of travel home; peephole of the side entrance door or high / low peephole; bell in an accessible place; and a surface on which to place the packages while the door is open.
Electricity, Lighting, Security and Surveillance:
install new smoke and CO detectors; install automated lighting, an emergency alarm system or a video surveillance system; easy to see and read thermostats; light switches at every entrance to corridors and rooms; light sockets with at least two bulbs in vital places (exits, bathroom); light switches, thermostats, and other environmental controls located in accessible locations no more than 48 inches from the floor; and preprogrammed thermostats.
Floors:
if with carpet, use low density with rigid padding; smooth, non-reflective and non-slip surfaces; and color and texture contrast to indicate changes in surface layers.
Corridors:
wide; well lit; and fasten rugs and carpets, removing unnecessary ones.
Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning:
install high energy efficiency units; The HVAC must be designed so that the filters are easily accessible; and windows that can be opened for cross ventilation and fresh air.
Miscellaneous:
30" by 48" free space on appliances or 60 "diameter free space for curves; multilevel work areas to accommodate cooks of different heights; ring handles for easy grip and traction; removable spray tap; lever handles; open work areas under the counter for seating.
Floor plan:
main house on one level, including full bathroom; 5ft by 5ft free turning space in the living room, kitchen, one bedroom and one bathroom; and no steps between the rooms on one level. Low maintenance and convenient features: easy to clean surfaces; integrated recycling system; videophones.
Stairs, Lifts and Elevators:
adequate handrails on both sides of the stairs; residential elevator or lift; and increased visibility of the stairs through a contrast strip at the top and bottom of the stairs. Storage: lighting in the cabinets; adjustable rails and shelves for wardrobes; and easy-to-open doors that do not obstruct access.
Windows:
many windows for natural light; low maintenance exterior and interior finishes; lower windows or higher windows with a lower sill.
Tips for those who want to Age in Place:
Talk to your family members about your long-term life preferences.
Take a look at your finances and retirement funds. Refurbish your home before your mobility is limited.
Consider making your home "age-friendly" as a gradual, planned home improvement. If you decide before retiring that you want to live in your current home for the rest of your life, consider paying for high-value, long-term housing projects while still having a healthy income.
In short, Aging In Place is one way by which senior citizens can avoid being dependent on others due to declining health and mobility.
If you or a loved one would like to have an Aging In Place Home Inspection performed in the Southwest Ohio area, please reach out to LiteHouse Inpsect to schedule today!