When Is It Time To Start Preparing To Age In Place?
I am regularly asked this question, and my answer is always the same. Each person ages differently, so there is no set time to begin the process.
For me, I began making modifications to my home when I was 57. I realized I did not feel safe carrying baskets of laundry up and down two flights of stairs to the basement, so I added laundry machines on my second floor. This has made my life so much easier and safer.
When meeting with new clients we always discuss their life challenges. Each client is unique, and we need to make sure that the modifications are made to fit their home safety.
The Home Assessment starts on the exterior of their home from all entry points. We need to make sure that they are safe entering their home. And just as important, that their guests can safely enter the home. Do they have adequate handrails and lighting? Do they have steps that are in good shape? We then walk through the home and discuss each room and any challenges they may be having. In some instances, one of the spouses might not have any challenges, but the other spouse does, so we make the modifications necessary for the person struggling.
Adding important accessories can make all the difference for someone to feel safe. It can be additional handrails going up stairs, grab bars in bathrooms, or even non-slip tape on stairs.
The use of smart technology when assessing the home is also important. Smart technology gets better daily, and the use of these products can make every home safer.
For some clients it can mean a larger modification. I am currently working with a family dealing with ALS. For them it means altering the powder room to make it handicap accessible by widening the doorway and adding a roll in shower.
During this holiday season when you are visiting with family and friends, if you see them struggling with daily activities in their home, please discuss scheduling a home assessment to Age In Place. Preparing early is crucial for their safety and for those visiting them.
Call us for a free 30-minute telephone consultation to determine if a Home Assessment should be scheduled at 201-638-4410.
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