| 05/08-Home Adaptations for Aging in Place |
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Willard Scott brings lovely stories to us every week of 100-plus year old Americans still living in their homes and staying healthy because of a positive attitude and a shot of whiskey every night. While these centenarians may have unique formulas for maintaining their youth, most of us will need home adaptations, a list of resources and a bit of luck in order to live independently. The Twin Cities is lucky to have construction companies that specifically focus on adaptive remodeling. Widening doorways, lowering countertops and installing durable flooring are big jobs that require a professional. Ceiling lifts and transfer equipment help to prevent injuries while transferring someone from a wheelchair to their bed or in the bathroom. Spending time and money on making a home handicap accessible can protect the resident and also the home investment. Angie’s List (www.angieslist.com) is a great place to find a professional to assist you. Always make sure the company you hire is bonded & insured. While you’re in the process of planning home modifications, take a page from the city of Eden Prairie’s 20-40-15 plan (http://www.edenprairie.org/vCurrent/live/news.asp?r=3834) aimed at increasing the overall efficiency of the City’s use of electricity, fuel and other energy resources. Consider these cost-effective ideas from Mr. Handyman in which going green can save you money. 1. Install ceiling fans to cut air conditioning costs by 40%. In the winter, they circulate warm air back down. Consider a remote controlled version if you have difficulty reaching up to pull the string. 2. Sealing cooling and heating ducts with duct wrap or mastic sealant can save up to 25% on your energy bill. This is also a great time to check for carbon monoxide leaks and make sure all detectors are in working order. 3. The bathroom is one of the most common rooms that require modifications to make it accessible. While you’re installing a roll-in shower and raising the height of the toilet, also install a low-flow shower head to save 10%-16% of water heating costs. Fixing plumbing leaks like a dripping faucet can prevent 212 gallons of water from being wasted each month. 4. Installing ramps helps prevent falls and creates a wheelchair accessible entry. At the same time, plug energy leaks by adding door sweeps and door shoe gaskets around threshold and exterior doors. 5. Motion detectors can increase security and decrease energy expenditures. Timers can be set to turn lights off and on at predetermined times. Eden Prairie Professionals in Aging is a professional networking organization made up of representatives of diverse organizations, all committed to the welfare of seniors in our community. For more information on EPPIA, please visit our website at www.edenprairieaging.org/ Submitted by EPPIA Members:
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