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DiscussionWhat are your tips for staying independent at your own home?
Aging Well | Last Active: Apr 13 12:16pm | Replies (312)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "We are in our 50’s and are renovating our home. Thank goodness we are in a..."
That's very good. In the kitchen, evaluate accessibility of commonly used items. We made room for a set of service, mug for ice cream, cereal, etc and silverware to be reached from the chair.
We also added a section of bar so a wheelchair will fit nicely to give us a 'normal' eating area. We especially use it when having messy meals like soup or spaghetti.
When I purchased my current home in 2015, I had to wait several weeks before it was finished, but this gave me the opportunity to specify much of the finishing items, including bathroom fixtures. I learned that "accessible" toilets can be anywhere from 14 inches to 117 inches from the floor to the top of the toilet itself. Standard toilets from years past were 12 inches from the floor to the rim of the toilet. The three inches, between 14" and 17" makes a huge difference in ease of use if you ever have back or lower extremity surgery, like a hip replacement. I had 17" toilets put in my new house. Including the added height of the toilet seat, they are nearly 18 " from the floor to the top of the seat. I really notice it when I'm in a public place and the "accessible" toilet is a 14-incher. I manage, but I'm also glad for the grab bar. So carefully consider the height of the toilets you are putting in. How to manage if you have small grandchildren visiting? Maybe designate one bathroom as a non-accessible one? Good luck and good wishes on all the changes you are making. You'll be very glad you did!