“Aging in place” means spending your twilight years with grace and independence in the comfort of your own home. However, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Here are some of the most common barriers to aging in place.
Transportation
Vehicle-based transportation has become so ubiquitous these days that it’s hard to think about getting from point A to point B without a car, a bicycle or some form of public transportation. The problem with these modes of transportation is they don’t cater to people with limited mobility unless modified for that purpose. For example, ramps and chair lifts are not standard components for vans while sidewalks in most cities are often uneven and riddled with cracks that make it difficult for mobility-challenged persons.
Home Design
People generally don’t prepare for their older years when planning their home improvements. Think about it: how many aging-in-place features does your home have now? Does your bathroom have grab bars and slip-resistant flooring? Are the paths leading to your entry doors wheelchair-friendly? Chances are, they don’t.
The good news is, there are remodelers who have experience or even specialize in aging-in-place home improvements. In addition to having the option to prepare your home for the future, working with such contractors also eliminates the guesswork in trying to find the right features to add.
Home Care
One of the greatest barriers of aging in place is getting assistance as we age. A few generations ago, children were compelled to be on their own when they turn 18; living with your parents beyond that age is considered an embarrassment. Their now-elderly parents would then be left with no choice but to have strangers care for them. Today’s multi-generational households have somehow lessened the stigma of adult children staying with their elderly parents, which is a good thing because the latter can enjoy their later years in their own homes and – more importantly – with their loved ones.
STL Design and Build is your leading provider of home remodeling services, including bath remodeling. Give us a call at (314) 736-5800. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.