Tips on Adapting a House for Senior Living

Given the choice, most seniors would be glad to stay in their own homes for as long as humanly possible. After all, how many of us really want to give up our independence, at any age?

Adapting a house for senior living may not be as complicated or expensive as it may seem. Here is a checklist of things that can be done in each room of the house to help insure safety for the senior living there. Items on the checklist can be hired done or completed with the help of volunteers and family members.

In the Kitchen

* Install a faucet with a single lever to control the water flow and temperature
* Install a pullout work shelf under a counter so the senior can work while sitting down
* If necessary, lower the existing cupboards
* Install handles on the cupboards and drawers that are easily gripped, such as 'D'-shaped handles.
* Make sure the electrical outlets for small appliances are in a convenient place
* Install a smoke alarm just outside the kitchen area
* Install a fire extinguisher close to the kitchen exit

In the Bathroom

* If there is not any already, install shelves or drawers by the bathroom sink
* If necessary, install grab bars on the surface area of the sink
* Make sure there is adequate lighting by the mirror or medicine cabinet
* Throughout the bathroom, install non-slip flooring
* Install a single lever faucet to control the water flow and temperature
* Adjust the hot water heater so the water cannot reach a scalding temperature
* Install an adjustable hand held shower

At the Entrance to the House

* Install a ramp over or adjacent to the steps
* Make sure the steps and walkways are well lit
* Install lever type door handles instead of round doorknobs

In the Bedroom

* If it's not already there, move the bedroom to the main floor
* Make use of a nightlight
* Make sure the path from the bed to the bathroom is free from obstacles
* Make sure important phone numbers are in large print by the bedroom phone
* Keep a flashlight by the bed
* If necessary, install a personal response system

In the Basement and Laundry Area

* Check for easy access to laundry supplies
* Install a telephone in the basement to save steps

In the Closet and Areas of Storage