Aging In Place

According to a survey conducted in May 2000 by the American Association of Retired People (AARP) titled Fixing to Stay, the majority of respondents (all age 45 and older) would like to remain in their current home for as long as possible and 63 percent believe their current residence is where they will always live. If you or someone you know is among this group, there are some important considerations to ensure a safe and comfortable home environment, now and in the future.

Millions of Americans are living longer and more active lives. There is a growing need to ensure we can enjoy a safe, productive, and independent lifestyle well into our golden years. Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) is a program developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and AARP. The program provides training for contractors specifically to meet the needs of those planning to age in place in their current homes and remain as independent as possible. They have the skills to design and make functional yet attractive modifications that will blend seamlessly with your home's current style. Gone are the days that a bathroom with stability bars must resemble a hospital room. Manufacturers of accessibility products are continually developing new products that are attractive and that match current plumbing and hardware styles and finishes.

Safety is the number one reason for making any of these modifications. Planning and making the appropriate improvements well in advance can help prevent accidents and provide a more secure and accessible living environment. Design changes can range from a few simple items to a more complex remodel, depending on the individuals current needs and their plans for the future. Installing attractive stability bars and non-slip flooring accessories in a bathroom; improved lighting in hallways, work areas, and along outdoor pathways; and continuous handrails on both sides of stairways are simple and relatively inexpensive modifications. More extensive remodels can convert kitchens, bathrooms, or entire living spaces into spacious, functional, and yet very attractive living areas. Certified Aging in Place Specialists will work with you to assess both your current and potential future needs and help you make these important and life-enhancing modifications.

You don't have to plan to spend the rest of your life in your current residence to benefit by making even a few accessibility and safety modifications. If you are planning a home improvement or remodeling project, this would be an especially good time to consider incorporating some features to make your home easier to live in. Something as simple as installing rocker switches (Imagine how handy that would be with an armful of groceries!), or lever type faucets can make every day chores much easier. You will benefit by the increased functionality of these features as well as improving resale value by appealing to a broader market. Another very important consideration is if you have older relatives that visit often or may eventually move in to the household. Many simple features will make your home more 'visitable' and the transition of merging households an easier process.

An alternative to modifying your existing home is to sell and purchase a home that is already more suitable for your needs. However, if you consider the costs associated with selling and buying a home, it is often less expensive to modify your existing home and save on real estate commissions, closing costs, moving costs, and decorating. Depending on your particular situation, a home equity loan or reverse mortgage may be an option to finance a more extensive remodel. Some long-term care or private insurance policies cover special equipment such as ramps and stability bars. Additionally, there are several other potential resources available to pay or help supplement your out-of-pocket costs for qualifying improvements/modifications. Medicare/Medicaid (1-877-267-2323) may cover some medical equipment and supplies. The Department of Veterans Affairs (1-800-827-1000) offers a grant program for home building and accessibility modifications. Community service organizations such as your local Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, and Elks Clubs may have funds available for people with disabilities. Public and private agencies including Easter Seals, Multiple Sclerosis Association, Muscular Dystrophy Association, and United Way Organizations are also good resources for information on services and eligibility requirements.

Consulting with a Certified Aging in Place Specialist is the first step to help you determine your specific needs and the many options and related benefits available to you. We at Contractor Hotline are pleased to be able to recommend qualified, professional contractors that have not only completed the CAPS program but also comply with our extensive screening criteria. Contractors in our network have proven that they are not only excellent at their craft, but are licensed, bonded & insured, professional, courteous, trustworthy, and competitively priced. If you are interested in consulting with a Certified Aging in Place Specialist from our network we would be happy to help you make that connection. We will be available for you throughout the entire process from the initial consultation appointment throughout completion of your project and beyond. To get started, simply call Cari at 425-775-9085 or submit a work request via our website at www.contractorhotline.net.