If you have an elderly loved one, making adjustments to their home to make it more accessible is important for safety and independence, even if they don't live alone. Can you imagine how frustrating it must be to not be able to navigate your own home; how a simple obstruction can keep you from getting in the front door? Below are 7 ways that you can help make a life a little easier and more independent.
1.Ramp
- a wheelchair ramp should be one of the very first things on your list
2.Lighting
- Install brighter blubs everywhere. New LED bulbs also reduce power consumption while making it easier to see.
3.Doorways
- walkers, wheelchairs or mobility scooters don't always fit through standard-sized doorways; consider widening doorways and entrances
- replace doorknobs with lever handles.
4.Stairs
- Unless you move your loved one's bedroom downstairs and eliminate any need to access the second floor of the house, you will need a stairway lift or at least, carpeted stairs or non-slip treads.
- strong railings at every staircase
5.Floors
- remove throw rugs
- apply non-slip wax to vinyl & wood floors.
6.Bathroom;
- textured, no-slip strips in the bathtub and shower
- grab bars near the toilets and in the tub/shower
- a waterproof seat or chair in the shower
- a high-profile toilet
- a pedestal or wall-mounted sink that a wheelchair or walker can fit beneath.
7.Kitchen
- replace knob-style kitchen faucet with lever style
- move the contents of the top shelves
- down to lower shelves to reduce the reach
- remove obstructions that can trip (trash cans, bar stools, decorations, etc)
Encourage your parents to update or complete their estate plans. There are really 5 basic estate planning documents:
- Will
- Durable Power of Attorney
- Healthcare Power of Attorney
- Living Will
- Revocable Trust
It is a great gift for a parent to have everything in order when they pass. It can keep your family strong and minimize taxes. Their savings and possessions can help the people that they love.
It starts with a conversation. Call estate planning attorney Chuck Bendig @ 614.878.7777 or visit our website for answers to frequently asked questions and details.
