"Aging in Place" is a term used to describe a person living in the residence of their choice, for as long as they are able, as they age.
As our bodies age we change our style of clothes, shoes and hair. We change our diet and the way we exercise. But we rarely re-design our homes to functionally adapt to our changing needs.
When I walk into a senior citizen's home, I often find a living room with 1960's furniture that no one is using. Seniors can't rise from the low and deep sofas of this period and the TV is placed too far from the couch to see and hear. In addition, coffee tables leave little room to maneuver a walker.
In the kitchen the countertops are crowded with dishes and food for everyday use because reaching items in high and low cabinets is too difficult.
As our bodies age we change our style of clothes, shoes and hair. We change our diet and the way we exercise. But we rarely re-design our homes to functionally adapt to our changing needs.
When I walk into a senior citizen's home, I often find a living room with 1960's furniture that no one is using. Seniors can't rise from the low and deep sofas of this period and the TV is placed too far from the couch to see and hear. In addition, coffee tables leave little room to maneuver a walker.
In the kitchen the countertops are crowded with dishes and food for everyday use because reaching items in high and low cabinets is too difficult.
Clothes are squeezed into closets making them hard to remove. Easy to reach clothing hung on doorknobs, or draped on chairs is worn over and over.
The bathroom is the most dangerous room. Often too small, the lack of accessible storage leaves items on the floors, counters and toilet top. Stepping into a tub without grab bars and a tub seat is a daily risk.
In all areas lighting may be insufficient, making it hard to find items, see obstructions, or clean adequately.
Many of these issues are fixable without great expense. Simply sorting through clothing, donating unused items and lowering the height of the rod can make the closet functional again. Reupholstering a couch with firm high cushions can make it accessible.
Do you need some help making your home more functional for your current needs? Judith Moves You can help by identifying problems areas in your home and finding solutions. Call today for a free consultation.
The bathroom is the most dangerous room. Often too small, the lack of accessible storage leaves items on the floors, counters and toilet top. Stepping into a tub without grab bars and a tub seat is a daily risk.
In all areas lighting may be insufficient, making it hard to find items, see obstructions, or clean adequately.
Many of these issues are fixable without great expense. Simply sorting through clothing, donating unused items and lowering the height of the rod can make the closet functional again. Reupholstering a couch with firm high cushions can make it accessible.
Do you need some help making your home more functional for your current needs? Judith Moves You can help by identifying problems areas in your home and finding solutions. Call today for a free consultation.
