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Some simple home modifications can make for safer and more comfortable living at home.

Entries and Doorways

• There should be at least one no-step entry to the house with a cover
• Outdoor walkway should be well lit
• Install a sensor light focusing on the front-door lock
• Use non-slip flooring in foyer
• Make sure there is a surface outside to place packages on when opening the door
• There needs to be 32 inches of clear width, which requires a 36-inch door
• Use a levered door hardware versus a knob

Windows

• Make sure there are plenty of windows for natural light, which should be kept clean and with curtains pulled back during daylight hours
• Include lowered windows or taller windows with lower sill height
• Use easy to operate window hardware

Faucets

• Use lever or pedal-controlled handles
• Install thermostatic or anti-scald controls

Ramps

• Slope should be no greater than 1 inch rise for each 12 inches in length, with adequate handrails
• Provide a 5-foot landing at the entrance
• Include 2-inch curbs for safety

Appliances

• Use a front loading laundry machine on the first floor of the home
• Install an electric cook top with level burners for safety in transferring between the burners, front controls and a downdraft feature to pull heat away from the user, as well as a light to indicate when the surface is hot
• Make sure they utilize easy to read controls
• Use a microwave oven at counter height or in the wall
• Use a side-by-side refrigerator/freezer

Counters and Cabinets

• Make sure there is wall support and provision for adjustable and/or varied height counters and removable base cabinets
• Install open under-counter seated work areas
• Use accented stripes on edge of countertops to provide visual orientation to the workspace
• Use pull-down shelving
• Use glass-front cabinet doors and/or open shelving for easy access to frequently used items
• Include loop handles for easy grip and pull
• Include a base cabinet with roll out trays and lazy Susans

Fixtures

• Use grab bars in the shower and/or tub
• If a stand-up shower is used, it should be curbless and a minimum of 36 inches wide
• If a bathtub is used, obtain a transfer bench, install a bath lift or purchase a walk-in tub
• Use a fold down seat in the shower
• Install adjustable/handheld showerheads, 6-foot hose
• Make sure there is a light in the shower stall
• The toilet should be 2½ inches higher than a standard toilet (17 to 19 inches) or height-adjustable
• Design of the toilet paper holder should allow rolls to be changed with one hand
• Use slip-resistant flooring in bathroom, tub and shower

Stairways, Lifts and Elevators

• Make sure there are adequate handrails on both sides of stairway, 1¼-inch diameter
• Increase stair visibility through contrast strip on top and bottom stairs, color contrast between treads and risers on stairs and use of lighting
• Multi-story homes may have a pre-framed shaft (i.e., stacked closets) for a future elevator, or stairway must be a minimum of 4’ wide to allow for a lift

Closets and Shelving

• Install adjustable closet rods and shelves
• Use easy-to-reach lighting in closets
• Include easy-open doors that do not obstruct access
• Make sure closets are uncluttered, organized and easily accessible, with items off the floor, including shoes
• Shelves should be no more than 18 inches deep
• Lower drawers should be deep and upper drawers should be shallow

Electrical, Lighting, Safety and Security

• Ensure light switches are by each entrance to hallways and rooms
• Use 2-bulb light receptacles in vital places (exits, etc.)
• Add more incandescent lights to the home
• Add nightlights in areas one might walk at nighttime (i.e., bedroom, hallway and bathroom)
• Light switches, thermostats and other environmental controls should be placed in accessible locations no higher than 48 inches from floor
• Use easy-to-see pre-programmed thermostats
• Clear access space in front of switches and controls
• Use rocker or touch light switches
• Include an audible and visual strobe light system to indicate when doorbell, telephone or smoke or CO2 detectors have been activated
• Install a high-tech security/intercom system, with heating, air conditioning and lighting, from any TV
• Use a flashing porch light or 911 switch
• Make sure the home is wired for security

Flooring

• Use smooth, non-glare, slip-resistant surfaces, interior and exterior
• If carpeted, use low (< ½ inch pile) density, with firm pad
• Use color/texture contrast to indicate surface level changes

When care is needed, CareWorks Health Services can help, not only with a qualified caregiver, but by coordinating community services so living at home longer is possible. We can also provide a free in-home safety assessment and make recommendations for comfortably aging in place. Contact us to learn more about our Orange County home care service.

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