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Home Modifications

Modifying a home is adapting it so that a maturing or disabled person can perform activities of daily living as safely and comfortably as possible.

Savvy seniors, aging baby boomers and those seeking to maintain independence are redesigning their current homes with the goal of "aging in place" instead of moving into a retirement community or assisted living residence. Many people are choosing to incorporate design features and products that will not only accommodate their needs today, but allow flexibility for any short term or permanent health condition that may affect them in the future. And the reality is, adding accessible features to a home at any stage is an investment in the home, as well as adds to the quality of life of the homeowner. With the correct architectural features in place, individuals of all ages and abilities can live comfortably for years to come.

Aging-in-Place:

  • niversal Design is a home that is designed to be useable by as many people as possible regardless of age, ability or situation. Features may include: wide interior doors and hallways, lever door hardware, single lever faucet, comfort height toilet.
    Read an article about Universal Design

  • Adaptable Home is a home that allows for future modifications and customization with little cost. Features may include: one no-step entry, clear floor space at sink, ability to remove base cabinets to create knee space below sink, clothing rods mounted on brackets for adjustable height.

  • Visitability is a home designed to be accessible to all visitors regardless of age, ability or situation. Features may include: powder room on main level, 32" clear opening on all doors, one no-step entry.

  • Accessible is a home that is customized to enhance an individual's specific access needs. Features may include: ceiling mounted lift system, wall oven, wheelchair lift, specific storage needs within reach, grab bars, roll-in-shower. (Source: www.accessibilitydesign.com)
Who We Serve
  • Baby Boomers: By the year 2020 the population of those 65 and older will be 54.6 million. AARP found that 71% of those baby boomers would like to remain in their home or Age-in-Place.
  • Contractors: Modifying a home calls for a team approach. An Aging-in-Place specialist, together with your contractor/builder can provide solutions to tough accessibility hurdles in modifying a home.
  • Social Workers/Therapists: Discharge team members may look for consultation to ensure a patient's discharge to a safe and accessible home environment .
  • Homeowners with a Life-Altering Disability: Disabilities such as Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, and Parkinson's Disease can limit ones independence within a home.
  • Caregiver of an Aging Parent/Special Needs Child: In America there are approximately 1 in 4 households where caregivers are providing care for loved-ones. When you consult an Aging-in-Place Specialist you ensure that your home modification is thorough and backed by the NAHB and AARP.

How To Fund Home Modifications

  • Private Pay
  • Insurance Settlement (A Special Needs Trust)
  • Foundations and Disability-Specific Organizations
  • Bank Loan
  • Public Assistance
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