One of the consequences of having a population that lives longer is developing policies that allow for elderly people to live the life they want as long as they can. A survey by the AARP said that 88 percent of people over the age of 65 would prefer to stay in their homes or apartments for as long as they can. So if that's the case, what are the best ways to ensure that housing can be more elderly-friendly and inclusive? Here are six suggestions on where to start:
Improve The Home Design In Housing For The Elderly
One of the challenges faced by the elderly is that their current home might not be designed in a way that can accommodate their lessened mobility and weakened stamina. For many seniors, their first response to these problems is
to just adjust their lifestyle. But cutting down on showers or visits outside isn't a long term solution. Experts point to a number of changes to any home that can greatly enhance a senior's life, ranging from entrance ramps & portable lifts to making a bathroom accessible with bars and other devices.
Technology To The Rescue
There are a number of technologies that can help the elderly. There are a number of monitoring services available, from ones that alert authorities to a health emergency to live cameras that allow remote viewing by concerned family members. Seniors are sometimes reluctant to embrace these ideas, but generally find them extremely helpful once they are installed.
Bring In Outside Help
Hiring a part-time nurse or other elder care workers can lengthen the time a senior can remain in their home. A home nurse can help ensure the senior is properly taking their medication, can help with cleaning or cooking and even help the senior fight off the depression that can come with decreased mobility.
Encourage Your City To Develop 'Age In Place' Designs
As the population in the U.S. ages, towns of every size will be faced with a population that is getting older. Some cities, such as Seattle, have developed comprehensive plans that hope to make it easier for seniors to remain in their homes. That requires everything from better sidewalk design to more flexible public transit schedules. But the goal is to make it as easy as possible for the elderly to remain independent.
Do A Kitchen Makeover
Preparing your own meals is a central part of feeling as if you'res till productive and independent. But modern kitchens need a major overhaul before they can easily serve the needs of the elderly. That includes larger knobs and drawer pulls to help with a weakened grip as well as moving appliances so they are within easy reach. Install easier to use faucets and if needed, even pedal-controlled kitchen faucets are available. And don't forget to move everything in the pantry or cabinets down to a space where they are easier to find and grab.
Encourage Flexible Zoning Laws
Whether you are caring for an elderly family member or just interested in improving the inclusive nature of senior housing, an important step is encouraging your local community to revamp their approach to zoning. Many communities ban so-called "mother-in-law" dwellings, even though they are both affordable and expand the area's rental stock. It's also helpful to encourage smaller units and
medical scooter friendly housing near shopping and mass transit.
The elderly can remain independent and continue contributing to society for many years after retirement if we work to make their day-to-day lives easier. If we help make their home a safe and comfortable place, they will be able to live where they want to live....at home.