More and more Americans want to stay in their homes after retirement but many homes are not equipped and people are not prepared. Planning ahead is hard because you never know how your needs might change. But, the first step is to think about the kinds of help you might want in the near future. If you definitely would like to stay in your home, you need to be proactive, not reactive. Removal of area rugs, increased lighting, addition of grab bars and rails are some simple modifications that can prevent injuries. Statistics show, falls are the leading cause of hospitalization and death in older Americans.
In order to prevent falls from taking place and ensure comfortable, safe living quarters, you should get a home safety assessment. This should be conducted by a medical professional, preferably an occupational or physical therapist. They are able to assess your physical abilities and also the condition of your home. They can also prepare you and your home for the future. For example, if a client has early stages of Parkinson’s, a progressive neurological disease; his current limitations may drastically change within the next 5 years. He may be able to walk up and down the stairs now; however, in a few years he may become very unbalanced. The therapist may suggest putting in an additional railing as a safety precaution. Therapists are able to predict the clients future condition based on their professional experience.
Many suggestions are simple, cost effective, and can be done right away. Other recommendations may be more complex and require an experienced builder who has experience with age in place modifications like widening doorways, lipless showers, raised toilet seats, and lowering countertops. The therapist and builder can work together and make adaptations based on physical assessment and likely progression and future needs.
Take the first step and get a safety assessment for you or a loved one, before steps become unsafe.