City of Virginia Beach Pattern Book Adaptive Design for Universal Living
As adults age, some may move into assisted living facilities or nursing homes. However, many seniors will either remain in their own home or move in with family members. When a senior is living in a home environment, adjustments must be made in order to ensure the home is both comfortable and safe for seniors and their caretakers. Below is a list of home improvements that can help make this life- transition a smooth one.
1. Pathways and areas where medication is dispensed or
administered must be well lit, whether they are used by senior citizens or caretakers. A variety of lighting can be used, including, but not limited to, ceiling lights or night lights.
2. In a senior living environment, there should be a minimum of
required level changes or travel up and down stairs. Primary living spaces (including bedrooms and bathrooms) should be on the ground floor and require no level changes. All floors should have some type of non-slip surface. All pathways should be clear and free of carpeting or loose wires.
3. Railings, ramps and grab bars should be installed throughout the home where appropriate (especially in the bathroom). Portable grab bar models that rely on suction cups rather than permanent bolts are an option for smooth surfaces. Portable
grab bars Stand-alone ramp products expensive than constructing a permanent ramp.
Pattern Book Chapter 5: Specialty Design
Page | 115
Source:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/570217/top_10_home_i mprovement_tips_for_senior.html?cat=6
4. If care providers are to live in the home, there should be a room for sleeping as well as a desk space for administrative duties.
5. It is advisable to replace door knobs with levers, which are easier for seniors to open. All appliances and furniture in the home should be both easy to use and require minimal maintenance.
6. If you are assisting a senior family member with plans for a major home remodeling project, you have the option of hiring a consultant who specializes in adaptive reuse for seniors. This type of professional will typically conduct a full assessment of
recommended design program, and serve as the coordinator between you,
the senior’s medical remodeling/construction contractor. supervisor,
the home, develop a and
the
are only
appropriate for some adults, depending on body weight. Modular rubber or metal ramp products are available and appropriate for minor level changes.
can be less
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