Home Modifications
There are a number of items to consider when remodeling your home. You may wish to consult 4 Life Homes early in your evaluation process. No one is going to make all of the modifications, but be wise regarding those you focus on. i.e. if you already know your eyesight is failing, focus on modifications that benefit poor, or poorer eyesight the most. If you have arthritis that impairs mobility, focus on modifications that cater to your anticipated increasing mobility limitations.
General
Adapt lower floor of home for possible one level living
Increased incandescent general and specific task lighting
Easy garage or parking access
At least one entry is without steps
Doorways 36" wide with off-set hinges on doors
Levered door handles instead of knobs
Electrical outlets at 18 inches instead of 12
Easy to open or lock patio doors and screens
Light switches at 42" instead of 48
Adjustable controls on light switches
Luminous switches in bedrooms, baths and hallways
Strobe light or vibrator-assisted smoke and burglar alarms
Lower window sills especially for windows on the street
Programmable thermostats for heating and cooling
Contrast colors between floor and walls
Color borders around floor and counter-top edges
Non skid flooring
Matte finish paint, flooring and counter-tops
Non-glare glass on art work
Peep hole at a low height
Incorporation of emergency response system installed or wearable
Bathroom
Lever faucets and faucet mixers with anti-scald valves
Temperature controlled shower and tub fixtures
Stall shower with a low threshold and shower seat
Grab bars at back and sides of shower, tub and toilet or wall reinforcement for later installation
Bathrooms with turn around and transfer space for walker or wheelchair (36" by 36")
Higher bathroom counters
Telephone jack
Installation of medical response device
Kitchen
Kitchen cabinets with pull-out shelves and lazy susans
Easy to grasp cabinet knobs or pulls
Task lighting under counters
Cooktop with front controls
Side by side refrigerator
Adjustable upper shelves and pull out lower shelves
Variety in kitchen counter height - some as low as table height (30 inches)
Gas sensor near gas cooking, water heater and gas furnace
Color or pattern borders at counter edges