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Eight Ways to Make a House Elder-Friendly |
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Over the next 10+ years, many home buyers will be moving into their retirement homes. Most of them as they age will need to make the house more friendly to aging people. Here are some steps you can take to make your house more attractive to aging buyers. |
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| Author: Sam Chapman |
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1) Eliminate throw rugs. It is way too easy to catch a foot on a throw run and fall. Throw rugs also can bunch up, creating another tripping
hazard.
2) Install grab bars in bathrooms. They should be fitted per ADA guidelines and anchored solidly in walls. Grab bars should be installed by
toilets and in bathtubs and showers.
3) Change door knobs to lever handles. Arthritic or weakened hands can have a difficult time grasping and turning a door knob.
4) Elevate the dishwasher, washing machine and clothes dryer. This will help to eliminate bending. Simple pedestals can be put in place
under the washer and dryer. The dishwasher might take a bit more work, but it can be done and it can even look pretty good.
5) Change dual water faucets to single-handle lever faucets. Nor only is the single-handle lever easier to use than a knob, but there may be
lesser of a likelihood of burning one's self.
6) Make sure that all steps and stairs have good rails on both sides wherever possible.
7) Light everything up. Put night lights in wall outlets. Make sure entry ways have adequate lighting. Place lights by steps both inside and
outside. Make sure all rooms have adequate lighting. Make sure that there is adequate outdoor lighting for all porches and paths.
8) Builders should do all of this and more in new homes. New construction should have halls and doors wide enough for wheelchairs. Light switches should be lower on the wall so someone in a wheelchair can access them easily. The switches should also be rocker switches rather
than the up and down toggle switches. Showers should be built so that there is a very minimal step to go over.
About Author
Sam Chapman is an Austin, TX REALTORŪ who has lived in the area for 20 years. He has spent quite a bit of time lately helping people buy retirement homes.
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