Did you know that of the 46.2 million elderly people in the United State, 89% wish to remain in their own homes? While it may be a challenge to implement, the key to helping your elders stay in their homes is preparation.
Most of the aging population do not want to admit they need extra help as to not worry their loved ones, or so that they don’t have to face aging or declining health. As loved ones and caretakers, it’s up to us to implement what is available and affordable to keep them safe and in their own homes for as long as they can safely do so.
With the holiday season approaching fast, what could be a better gift than the gift of safety on top of making their lives just a little bit easier? While these items may not be something you surprise your elders with, we’ve provided discussion points for how each wishlist item can benefit them and assist them in aging in place.
Wishlist Item #1: Wheelchair Ramps
Help make daily navigation easy and safe with a slip-resistant surface. Available to rent or own, modular wheelchair ramps can be quickly and professionally installed and fitted to most entryways. Amramp ramps do not impact landscaping nor the building and are typically approved by historic districts as well.
What to say to offset any protest:
- Ensures the safety of getting in & out of your home easily so no one has to worry.
- No more slippery stairs – Amramp’s unique slip-resistant surface uses an open mesh solution that allows moisture to drain preventing a slick surface from developing.
- Creating an accessible gathering space for all their other aging friends
- Can be rented for just the winter if snow and/or ice build-up is a concern.
Wishlist Item #2: Automatic Door Openers
An easily installed automatic door opener can be affixed to any standard indoor or outdoor door, based on your needs.
What to say to offset any protest:
- This gives the additional option for the door to open automatically as the door can still be used manually.
- Those with arthritis and MS may have a hard time utilizing a standard door. Adding this feature could make a significant difference.
- Coming home from shopping with the grandkids or for groceries with your hands full? Reduce the risk of dropping things or falling from losing balance.
Wishlist Item #3: Stair Lifts
Staircases can be one of the most hazardous features of a home, which is why so many downsize to a one-level home as they age. Stairlifts offer an alternative to this with Amramp’s easy install lifts that are designed for safe, comfortable, and independent use.
What to say to offset any protest
- Make your home more accessible at all points of life; what’s the good of an upstairs if you cannot reach it?
- Reduce the risk of falling.
- Alternative to moving into a one-level home in case of an injury.
- Continuing living independently longer as mobility challenges often arise as we age.
- Indoor & outdoor models are available — could be a great alternative to wheelchair ramps if they are not of interest or do not fit in tight spaces.
Wishlist Item #4: Vertical Platform Lifts
Another alternative solution for wheelchair ramps and unique spaces. Vertical platform lifts can be essential for gaining access to raised entries in and around your home.
What to say to offset any protest
- Platform lifts are virtually maintenance-free and installation is quick and easy, so having this option available in case the need for it arises is a great solution.
- A great solution for tight spaces where there might not be room for a wheelchair ramp such as in cities.
Wishlist Item #5: Grab Bars
Prevent slips and falls that could be detrimental to the health of your loved ones no matter their age. Safety grab bars are an easy install by Amramp experts for all areas of a home that may pose a hazard.
What to say to offset any protest
- Falls getting in and out of the shower can leave many injuries and a feeling of embarrassment. Installing grab bars in the shower and key locations in the bathroom can prevent an event from happening in the first place.
- Common injuries in the elderly population include hip and knee problems, which both can require assistance when getting up and down and walking in general. Having grab bars in the bathrooms and stairways can help in case of injury so that your loved ones aren’t experiencing trouble getting up and around their own home.
Remember that preparation is key to staying safe, so remind your elders that although these are home modifications, they’re all safety solutions to help them stay in place longer.
Wheelchair manufacturer and installer Amramp offers innovative accessibility products, including the ADA–compliant, patented modular ramp system. On-site estimates are free and installation is generally within days, often within 24 hours.
For more about Amramp’s wheelchair ramp and aging-in-place products and services, or free on-site estimates, please contact Amramp’s National Customer Service Center at 888-715-7598.
Give your elders the gift of aging in place this holiday season
Call Amramp today to schedule a free on-site estimate
Please contact Amramp’s National Customer Service Center 888-715-7598
