Age-Friendly - Housing

After tackling transportation needs and outdoor spaces, the Age- and Dementia-Friendly Winnemucca Project Team discussed housing. Even though Winnemucca is a small city, housing here is quite expensive. With gold mines flourishing there is a huge demand for new, upgraded, larger homes, which are super for those with good salaries, but tough for people on a fixed income. Many seniors would like to "downgrade" their homes, or at least make their current homes more compatible with aging.
Downgrading refers to finding a smaller, more convenient and efficient home. Many older individuals no longer need (or want) a sprawling 3-4 bedroom home with multiple bathrooms to clean, bathrooms that do not have grab bars and other tools that are helpful for navigating these spaces. Smaller homes are difficult to find here - there is far more money to be had in large homes squeezed onto small lots, than there is in smaller homes, even multi-family complexes. Part of the task of the Project Team has been to inform contractors and realtors of many of the facets that make a home perfect for aging in place.
Some home accoutrements include:
large, easy to grasp handles on all cabinets
lever door knobs for easy manipulation
lever door knobs that when locked do not push down (saves getting locked out or having a wanderer disappear out of the front door)
door hinges that expand for easier access for moving, or for wheelchairs or walkers
single story homes so that stairs are eliminated
some lower counter spaces so that someone in a wheelchair or who needs to be seated to work has easier access
smooth floors for easy of movement (but not slippery surfaces)
elimination of frayed carpet and/or multiple area rugs that can cause tripping
grab bars in showers and tub areas and by toilets
higher toilets for ease of sitting and rising
easy-reach lighting
well-lit areas both inside and outside of the phone
There are many more suggestions. I can forward additional information to you if you send me an email or you can also go online and visit our website www.adf-winnemucca.com or the AARP website. Search: HomeFit.