Many senior Canadians would prefer to stay in their own home and “age in place” rather than move into what is known as, for some at least, the “dreaded” retirement home. Making your home more accessible can be money well spent, especially when you consider the cost of moving into a retirement home or extended care facility.
Aging in place simply means that you have access to the services and the health and social supports that you need to live safely and independently in your home or your community for as long as you wish or are able.
A few renovations might help extend your stay in your own home and could provide you with longer-term independence. It will also make you safer, and that is good news for you and your family.
As with any home project, modifications can range from simple to expensive. Using an office chair to float around the main floor instead of walking for example will cost less than installing an elevator.
A good place to start might be to bring in an occupational therapist who can assess not only your needs, but also your home, and give you suggestions. There is no “one-size fits all” answer.
There are of course many contractors consultants that specialize in accessibility home renovations, but you might also have a handy son-in-law who can do some of the work. Anything that helps you live easier and increase your safety is always worth looking at.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Entryway:
- Add a ramp for a wheelchair entry if the door is less than 30 inches above the ground
- Add a porch lift if the door is more than 30 inches from the ground
- Widen the exterior doorway
Stairs (Living on a single floor makes things easier – and cheaper):
- Add grip strips to hardwood
- Add a stair lift
- Convert stacked closets on two or more floors into an elevator
Bedroom:
- Widen interior doorway
- Install a ceiling lift to raise and lower yourself into and from your bed
- Purchase a portable mechanical floor lifter
Kitchen (putting electrical outlets and light switches at the front of counters makes them reachable for wheelchair users):
- Adjust countertops to 30 inches high and 24 inches deep (dimensions for wheelchair users)
- Replace oven with a side-opening model
- Replace the fridge with a model that double doors and a bottom freezer
- Install a sink basin no deeper than 10 inches
- Add touchless faucets
This isn’t an exhaustive list, just some ideas on what you might want to think about if you are choosing to age in place.
I can remember many years ago installing grab bars in my Dad’s shower and beside his toilet. He eventually did move out of his home and into an extended care facility, but with just a few simple changes, we made life a bit easier for him and he was able to prolong his time in his own home.
Today I would recommend getting the help of an occupational therapist to get their opinion on your situation.
There are of course many federal and provincial government programs that can provide subsidies and tax benefits should you decide to age in place.
I hope that whatever options you are considering for your own living situations, you consult with as many professionals as you can, and then make and informed decision.
With Gratitude,
KB.
THIS ARTICLE IS PROVIDED AS A GENERAL SOURCE OF INFORMATION ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED TO BE PERSONAL INVESTMENT OR LEGAL ADVICE. READERS SHOULD CONSULT WITH THEIR FINANCIAL OR LEGAL ADVISOR TO ENSURE IT IS SUITABLE FOR THEIR CIRCUMSTANCES.