Some things people find funny really aren’t funny. Having worked with so many retirees for so many years, I see no humor in the line “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!”
The leading cause of injuries to the elderly is falls. Between my retired clients and my empty nest clients caring for elderly parents, home safety is a growing concern.
Continuing care communities and assisted living facilities are an option for many but polling is clear—most people want to stay in their homes.
How does one prepare a home for elder friendly living?
The first step is an assessment of needs. Current and likely future medical conditions present unique needs. Most people can quickly ascertain that if they have a condition like rheumatoid arthritis, their mobility is probably going to be affected such that navigating stairs could become a problem but there is often more to the home preparation project.
For professional help, particularly when a condition is present, clients should talk with their doctors about a referral to an occupational therapist (OT) who specializes in modifications for the elderly. An OT can develop a plan that a contractor or handyman can implement. They can also be good sources of referrals to good contractors and handymen.
Some contractors are “Certified Aging in Place Specialists”. The CAPS designation was developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelors Council, in collaboration with the AARP, NAHB Research Center and NAHB Seniors Housing Council.
Avoiding Falls
According to the Center for Disease Control, falls are the number one cause of injuries to the elderly, resulting in more than 2.5 million emergency room visits each year. Falls are most commonly caused when people can’t see obstacles, lose their footing or lose their balance. Look around the house and ask:
-
Are walking surfaces, in and out of the house, even?
-
Are there sturdy handrails in good condition at all steps?