September 1999

Adapting the Home
 

Adapting the home for a person who is partially or fully disabled can be a demanding or a relatively simple process. In general, the more adaptations

Here we present suggestions-many of which came from architects who specialize in elder care housing and from occupational therapists-for optimum home care conditions. For example, the ideal home has an "open" floor plan that allows the person in care to see the caregiver, even when she is in a different room. Few caregivers can afford to substantially remodel a home. Nonetheless, we believe it is important for our readers to be aware of the "ideal" as they plan the alterations that are realistic in their situations.

Safety, Safety, Safety

The first priority in adapting any home is safety. Accidents do happen but, with a little planning, are preventable. Take an objective look at the home where you will provide care. Ask a relative or friend to survey it with you to help see safety hazards you may -have overlooked.

Falls
"UNINTENTIONAL INJURY, WHICH MOST OFTEN RESULTS FROM A FALL, RANKS AS THE SIXTH LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH AMONG PEOPLE OVER 65 YEARS OF AGE" (The New England Journal of Medicine, September 29, 1994)

Failing eyesight and loss of balance make the elderly prone to falling resulting in broken bones which can lead to lifelong disability. About 30% of people over 65 who live in the community fall each year.

Causes of Unsteadiness and Falls

• inadequate food and fluid intake
• medications
• pain
• worry
• weak muscles
• failing eyesight
• new glasses
• shiny new floor surfaces
• unsteady gait
• new shoes
• an unfamiliar walking aide
• fatigue
• variations in walking surfaces

NOTE: Leave a blanket, pillow, and phone on the floor in case of a fall.

Planning for Safety

As you plan for safety in the home, consider both current demands and future needs. For example, furniture that works well for a 75-year-old may need to be modified or replaced later when the person loses the strength to get up from low seats. Your first priority is to make the home as safe as possible. One of the barriers to using safety precautions is resistance by the person in your care. Talk to your health care professionals or the local Alzheimer's Association for information on implementing precautions. Then you can decide how to adapt the home environment to maintain the person's capabilities.

NOTE: An 85-year-old needs about three times the amount of light a 15-year-old needs to see the same thing.

Planning for Comfort and Convenience
As you plan changes to the home, don't forget your own comfort and convenience. Making life easier for yourself means you will have more time to provide care or to rest, which in the long run will improve the overall care environment.

Information about Adapting the Home is from The Comfort of Home: An Illustrated Step-by-Step Guide for Caregivers © Maria M. Meyer 1998 by permission of CareTrust Publications LLC. Available everywhere books are sold or from the publisher, care@teleport.com.