Standard dwelling updates help loved ones age in place

Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Media Get hold of:
Trisha Gedon | Communications Specialist | 405-744-3625 | [email protected]

Residence sweet dwelling. It’s where men and women sense the most comfortable. Having said that, as Oklahomans
age, their properties could call for modifications to make sure residents’ security.

“Aging in place definitely goes beyond just aging – it also could be a man or woman who simply
has difficulty getting all over,” reported Scott Frazier, Oklahoma Condition University Extension vitality administration expert and associate professor in the OSU Office of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering. “This is crucial, particularly in rural areas exactly where assisted living selections aren’t
out there.”

Some jobs that can boost the safety aspect might take just a several hours, whilst
others may well require a contractor.

1 way to make the home much more livable and safer for aging occupants is to install
grab bars in high-risk locations exactly where a slip or fall is extra probable.

“Just a minimal bit of drinking water on a tile or linoleum lavatory floor can be dangerous.
Bathtubs and showers also can become slick with soapy drinking water,” he explained. “If there’s
ample space, contemplate making use of a shower seat. Coupled with a hand-held shower head, this
adds far more security for bathing.”

Other choices contain setting up a grab bar close to the toilet for persons who could have
hassle sitting and standing again up and placing a further bar in the vicinity of the mattress for related
factors.

When setting up get bars, make absolutely sure they are screwed into wall studs, not just drywall.
These bars are reasonably priced and can be located at regional hardware outlets or purchased on the internet
via a range of capacity shops.

Outside ramps can be beneficial further than wheelchair mobility demands. Techniques can develop into really
a challenge for individuals on their toes as very well.

“People with mobility challenges can have trouble lifting their legs to navigate porch
stairs. A ramp would make it easier to enter and leave the dwelling,” Frazier stated. “Remember,
the ramps also need banisters or handrails. A thing else to take into account is a threshold
ramp for doorways to present a smooth surface area changeover from one particular home to the future.”

Other residence advancement suggestions to assist with growing old in position contain:

• Replace round doorknobs with lever-style handles.
• Install a lavatory heater/lamp for seniors who produce aching joints or body heat
  regulation issues.
• Update flooring. Carpet can be a main source of outings and falls. It’s also less difficult
  to maneuver a wheelchair on a good-surface ground.
• Insert brilliant lights and strong railings on each side of a staircase. A stair lift also
  may possibly be a resolution.
• Set up a swivel turntable, or lazy Susan, in a cupboard to retain contents arranged
  and uncomplicated to accessibility.
• Incorporate a kitchen area island or prep table at a cozy top.
• Attach wall hooks to make issues simpler to achieve.
• Think about slide-out shelving, which is far more available than cupboards that demand crouching
  or bending.

“Making just a few modifications can aid your cherished types stay in their household longer, which
is the place they are the happiest,” Frazier mentioned.