Wednesday, June 3, 2020

Live in Your Own Home as You Age



By 2030, every last Baby Boomer will finally reach the landmark age of 65…


I am 83 and preparing to move into an apartment on my own for the first time in 5 years. I rented a room in a friend's house for 4 years and have lived with a daughter. I'm excited about being on my own again but also concerned.

There are things to check and take care of before I move in. 

The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard suggests home accessibility and safety for aging in place and considers five accessibility and safety modifications for a home intended as a haven for aging in place:
The following are things to check in your home and fix if needed to remain living there as you age easily and safely.

  • Entryways with no steps
  • Single-floor living
  • Doorways and hallways wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs
  • Lever-style door handles rather than knobs
  • Light switches and electrical outlets within reach from a wheelchair

The Center determined only 1% of American homes meet all 5 safety features.
In addition to following the suggestions, I have a life alert device that eases my mind about an accident or if I feel threatened. It goes directly to a 5Star responsive agent and I can speak directly to that agent if I feel the need for emergency assistance. I can use it if I need medical or police service. It gives me great peace of mind.



 


Next Post - room to room inspection for making your home safe for aging easy.

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