We all want to live at home but over time, simple day to day activities can become more challenging. To make those chores easier to accomplish consider making a few modifications.
KITCHEN
- HANDLES: Replace cupboard and drawer handles with ‘D’ shaped handles as they are easier to use especially if you have limited strength or suffer from arthritis.
- EASY TO REACH: If your cupboards are too high, too low or too deep, install adjustable shelving that swings up, swings down or rolls out.
BEDROOM
- BED HEIGHT: If your knees are above your hips when sitting on the bed, your bed is too low.
- PHONE: Ensure you have easy access to a phone, especially at night. Invest in a cordless phone or better still one that does not rely on mains power to enable use or use a mobile phone.
- EMERGENCIES: A personal emergency alert system is also a good investment, especially if you live alone.
BATHROOM
- GRAB RAILS: Grab rails provide extra support and assist you to maintain your balance as you move in and around the bathroom.
- EASY TO USE TAPS: Install lever or flick mixer taps as they are easier to grasp.
- ADJUSTABLE SHOWER HEAD: A slide bar shower head allows for adjustable heights.
- EASY SHOWER ACCESS: Remove the threshold of your shower providing a step free, walk in shower.
- SHOWER SEAT: If modifying your shower, consider installation of a built-in shower seat allowing you the comfort and convenience to shower in a seated position if needed.
LIVING
- LIGHTING: There are a number of different lighting solutions such as night lights, rope lighting, battery powered, touch, sound, or motion activated lighting. All of which provide convenience and safety in the home. Multi-way switching and lighted switch plates also provide another safety enhancement.
- HANDLES: Lever style handle latches are easier to grasp and allow easier entry and exit.
- HINGES: Swing away door hinges make doorways wider for easier access by swinging the door so that it fits flush against a wall, especially useful if you need to use a wheeled walker or wheelchair.
LAUNDRY
- WASHING: A front-loading washer and dryer is easier to use and reach inside. They can be raised to a standing height preventing unnecessary bending.
OUTDOORS
- GRAB RAILS: Install a sturdy rail at each entry and exit point of the home to provide support getting in and out of the house. Install rails alongside garden paths especially if uneven or stepped.
- SENSOR LIGHTS: Install a sensor light at each entry point lighting the path into your house. Sensor lights are also considered a good security measure.
