A new joint report published by The Centre for Ageing Better and Care & Repair England has highlighted the importance of innovation and how a proactive, prevention-focused approach can empower local people to live in their own homes for longer, simply by adapting them to their own unique needs.
These adaptations, however simple, can often be life-changing for those who otherwise might struggle to manage health conditions and loss of mobility.
The report calls for local authorities and service providers to learn from the good practice it has uncovered and to raise awareness of the support that is available and the ways in which people can access it.
At GB Electrical & Building Services Ltd, this proactive approach is something we have embraced for a number of years now. Our online resources contain a wide range of information aimed at promoting awareness of things like funding options, garden accessibility and our Buyer’s guide to Adapted Bathrooms to name just a few.
The fact is, adaptations can be installed anywhere in the home and there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution, because each of us is unique, and so are the adaptations that could change our lives.
Here are just a few examples of how adapting your home can mean easier living, greater independence and more dignity. None of them are groundbreaking, in-fact many can be installed with a morning’s work.
But every one of them has the potential to be life-changing for the right person.
In the Bedroom:
- Motion sensor lighting: They turn on when needed and off shortly after you climb into bed, helping to prevent trips and falls in the dark
- Adjustable beds: These are easy to control and can make all the difference to getting in and out of bed safely and more independently, especially during the night
In the Bathroom:
- Toilet frames & Raised height toilets: These can be essential in helping those who might struggle to get up and down when using the toilet; you can learn more about them here
- Easy access showers & shower seats: Walking directly in to and out of the shower can reduce the risk of falls and trips, even a simple shower seat can have a big impact if standing for too long unaided is hard
In the Living Room:
- Riser-recliner chairs: Powered by electricity and incredibly comfy, these are much easier to get in and out of compared to conventional armchairs or low sofas
- Wider internal doorways: For those who rely on wheelchairs or other walking aids, widening their existing internal doorways can be ideal. This is a service our home adaptations team regularly undertakes for Herefordshire residents
In the Kitchen:
- Kitchen Mobility Accessories: These can help if you find it difficult to reach things from high up or low down in the kitchen; Rise and Fall cupboards and counters can make a massive impact
The Hall and Stairs:
- Ramps and handrails: These can completely replace existing steps into your home for much easier, safer access
- Stairlifts and additional handrails: Can combine to ensure that getting up and down your stairs independently is as easy as possible
- Key safes: These safe and secure key boxes, fitted outside your property can allow trusted family, friends or health professionals to access your property, giving you peace of mind
If you would like to learn more about the home adaptations we offer and how they go on to help our clients live safer and more easily in their own homes, get in touch for a friendly chat, we’d love to help.