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Aging in PlaceA Movement to Help the Elderly Remain in Their Own HomesThe Aging in Place home modification movement is helping today's elderly remain in their own homes by creating modifications that provide comfort and safety.
The time has passed when older people had few choices about where to live during their elder years. Instead there are many options available to them. One of the most popular today is having modifications made to their homes to meet with fading eyesight and restrictions of movement. Studies have shown that elders remaining in their own homes live healthier, safer and happier lives. Aging in Place for Baby BoomersWith the baby boomer population of nearly 80 million as clients, Certified Aging-in-Place specialists (CAPS) and the National Association of Home Builders are working toward developing programs that go beyond what is required in the Americans with Disabilities Act. It only required ramps at some entrances to public buildings for wheelchairs and wider bathroom stalls. Now barrier-free functions are being combined with aesthetics in private homes so that not only is safety available, it is created in a still attractive setting. Aging in Place CAPS Training ProgramCAPS is a training program that is offered through state homebuilders associations which includes modules on working with older adults, the normal aging process, demographics, home modification, home assessments and marketing to the older adult. Upon completion of training, a Certified Aging in Place Specialist certificate is issued to trainees. Their names can be obtained on a list available on the AARP website. Changes can be made in every room, from simple improvements to extensive remodeling. Aging in Place Minor Home ModificationsHand rails in showers and tubs to better lighting in hallways and on stairs are good examples of minor modifications. Just placing a bench at an entranceway for sitting down to take put on or take off shoes or a place to set groceries or packages can make a difference. More improvements include ramps, light switches and receptacles located at higher places on walls to avoid having to bend down to plug in vacuums or other appliances, handles on cabinets instead of knobs, faucets with single level handles and handrails on stairways. Aging in Place Major Home ModificationsIf more extensive changes are to be made in remodeling, manufacturers such as Kohler Co., GE Appliances and KraftMaid Cabinetry have websites with suggestions, such as counter heights, a toilet that is at least 18 inches tall to avoid strain on the back and knees, raising the height of the dishwasher so it is easier on the back or installing dishwasher drawers such as those manufactured by Fisher and Paykel. There are also drawer-style refrigerators and freezers as well as microwaves now being offered by Sharp. Structural changes can include wider hallways to accomodate wheel chairs. Aging in Place Industry RecognitionAs populations age, the building industry and manufacturers are increasingly aware of their role to help keep the elderly in their homes by reducing the risk of falls and the consequences and creating a safer environment by home modification for those wishing to be part of the Aging in Place generation. Sources: American Association of Retired People (AARP) National Association of Home Builders (NAOHB) Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) Journal of Housing for the Elderly
The copyright of the article Aging in Place in Seniors' Health/Medicare is owned by Martha R. Gore. Permission to republish Aging in Place in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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