Golden Opportunities

Those stairs were no problem a few years ago; today they may force you out of your home. Before you hang out a “for sale” sign, take a listen to our next guest. With his tips, you may be able to transform your home into a safe, accessible, and attractive environment. Here to explain how to modify masterfully is Wesley Walker, an accessibility and sustainability consultant on the Board of Maximum Independent Living of Ohio and the Cuyahoga County Commissioners Subcommittee on Accessibility.

Question: Why is accessibility in private homes such an important issue for those who are aging?

Answer: Seniors want to stay independently in their own homes for as long as possible, both for independence and because of high nursing home costs. But they need to be able to move around in their home, use appliances, etc. This can become more challenging as mobility becomes an issue.

Question: Why might older people be reluctant to remodel and make their home accessible?

Answer: Some people don't want to modify their homes because they are afraid of devaluing them. Ramps, grab bars, and other modifications carry a "stigma" that might make it more difficult to sell the home in the future.
Nowadays, however, one can modify their homes using a concept called "universal design." These modifications are "invisible" and visually appealing.

Question: Can you give us some examples of universal design?

Answer: Getting in and out of the house can be a challenge when mobility is an issue, and many people feel that ramps are not visually pleasing. There are ways to create a 0-step entry using landscaping to camouflage the transition. For example, in a house we (Revived Housing Developers) recently remodeled in Cleveland Heights, we built a deck on the back that had a 0-step entry from the house. It was made so that future modifications could create a ramp that runs up the side of the house to the deck that is invisible from the street. We also connected the detached garage with the addition, and left the landing wide for an adjacent chairlift.
Accessible appliances are becoming more and more mainstream. For example, many washers and dryers, along with dishwashers, are higher and have front loads and front controls. This helps people who may be approaching in a wheelchair, or who may have a bad back.
First floor laundry rooms can be created so residents don't have to go downstairs to do the wash.
Contrasting colors in the home can help as well. If there is a step down to a different level, different color carpeting will help differentiate the levels. Or a sink and countertop can have different colors as well, but still be aesthetically pleasing.
Walk-in showers without a step can be a better-looking alternative to grab bars. Toilets can be raised to a more comfortable height.
Planning ahead is always helpful. In a house we recently remodeled, we created a mother-in-law suite adjacent to the kitchen, but not connecting to it at this time. However, the wall contains a framed-in door. If mobility needs change, the door can quickly be put in to provide easy access to the kitchen.

Question: When is the right time to start considering such modifications to your homes?

Answer: Mobility concerns can really change in an instant. Many of the modifications can be planned years ahead of time. Say you're in your 50s and perfectly healthy, but need a new washer or dryer. Purchasing an appliance that's higher, and a front loader, may be a good idea from that point.

Question: Where can people get more information?

With today's options, you don't have to redecorate in the style of "early nursing home" in order to stay comfortably at home. My thanks to Wesley Walker for his modern modification tips. To learn more, call the number that's next.