We spoke in our last entry about the fact that most people age 55 and older would prefer to spend the rest of their days at home, rather than in a retirement facility (no matter how many amenities they offer.) Coincidentally, I fell while on my ordinary walk I take for exercise in my neighborhood and hit my head. I landed in the hospital for 7 days, and in a convalescent center for another 18 days before coming home due to complications in the ER. This was definitely not on my list of “To Do’s” for the day, decade, or life, yet that’s why they call them accidents! So this entry is even more important for me to write, and for all of us out there who are aging.

Today, we’ll spend time talking about specifics of four areas of your home: the entryway, bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchen. Some changes are an investment, and some are simple. Whether you’re reading this for your senior family members or yourself, they are all definitely worth your consideration.

Entryways

Entryways are particularly important because they allow access to the entire home. At least one entryway should be completely covered by a roof (a veranda) and have no steps. This may require some expense, as ramps may need to be built as well as extending a portico or eaves of your current home’s structure. The standard for slope on a ramp is 1:12 (which means the ramp rises 1” in 12” of its run) or about 5 degrees of incline, so they can take up a good deal of space.

Stair width, hand rails and lighting on stairs are important considerations if you have stairs leading to your porch. Stairs should be at least 3 feet wide, although ideally wider. They should have the standard 7” rise at most, and have a riser behind each step. Hand rails should be on both sides of stairs, regardless of the number, and extend beyond the top and bottom of the stairs to promote a steady entrance and exit from them. (If they don’t, one must reach for the rail, or bend and reach for the rail- not promoting safety.)

Bathrooms

Designing a bathroom that is comfortable, convenient, and safe is paramount in creating a space in which to age. Falling in the shower can be disastrous. Curbless showers provide no barrier to step or roll a wheel chair into the shower. If you prefer a tub, then make certain that a step-in tub has room to sit comfortably with everything needed for cleaning your body and hair. Grab bars in both a shower or a tub are imperative to easy and safe entrance and exit, reducing the risk of falling.

It’s best to have a bathroom on the first floor, which can be challenging in a smaller home. This bathroom needs to accommodate a wheel chair or walker, so it will take up some real estate, as well. Sometimes you can take space from an office, sunporch, or large closet that you don’t really need or use. It will provide more safety and convenience as you age.

Bedrooms

One’s bedroom is often the last consideration when thinking about decor, yet it is a vital part of the safety and convenience factors when considering aging in place. Think about replacing your old bed with an adjustable bed, which looks like a standard bed, but allows the head and foot to be raised to allow for the most comfortable position in which to sleep.

An assist rail can help when climbing into or out of the bed, and there are many on the market that can be installed to your current or new bed. (Waterbeds, some platform beds, and some Sleep Number beds do not allow for an assist rail, however.) The height of the bed should be 20-23” off the floor. A fall mat can be placed next to the bed on the floor to assure a safer exit from bed should one fall. Avoid any bedspread, comforter or duvet (as well as skirting) that reaches to the floor, as feet can get tangled and cause a fall.

Stairs and multi-story homes present a huge challenge, and it’s ideal to include a bedroom on the main floor of your home. If this is not an option for you, you may want to consider a stair lift. These come in a variety of styles, including standing (for those with problems bending at the waist or knees,) a perch (for those who have less stairway space,) or one with a seat with footrest.

Kitchens

If possible, plan a good mix of natural and artificial light. As humans age, they need more light. Under-cabinet lighting will help put light on the work areas of your kitchen. Other task lighting can be helpful over islands and peninsulas, as well as ambient light from recessed cans. Use LED lighting to minimize cost when using the lighting, as well as extending the life of the bulb. (That nearly eliminates having to climb a step stool to change the bulb.)

Placing a light switch near the entrance of the kitchen, along with placing it within easy reach is imperative. Rocker-type light switches are the best alternative to automatic light switches, which turn on the moment one enters the room.

Shiny surfaces such as flooring, cabinets and countertops can create glare, which can be dangerous. Consider honed/suede/matte finishes as they can be a great alternative to glossy quartz or granite. Lighter stained or painted cabinets with easy to grab contrasting color pulls can create a more convenient option. For those with eye sight issues, creating contrast on the edge of countertops and cabinets can be extremely helpful. Avoid the ever popular waterfall edge on your countertop. Easily accessible window coverings, ideally automated will afford privacy and light control.

Here is an organization called Aging In Place (https://aginginplace.org) that can help with one or more of the following aids:

• Medical Alert Systems
• Hearing Aids
• Adjustable beds
• Walk-in Tubs
• Portable Oxygen Concentrators
• Retirement Planning and Insurance
• Mobility Accessories

In conclusion

While it can be difficult to start any discussion about aging, it’s important that we all plan ahead so that we’re prepared for the future. If you’re saying, “I’m never going to need a wheel chair/walker,” think again. It could happen, (that’s why they call them accidents) and you would be better off if you are prepared. Whether you’re reading this for your senior family members or yourself, they are all definitely worth your consideration.