How do I find the best accessibility construction in Philadelphia?
Choosing the right Philadelphia accessibility construction contractor can help you avoid needless mistakes that can be costly to remedy. To start off with, make sure that the contractor has the appropriate licensing and registrations to comply with the requirements in your local area as well as in the state of Pennsylvania. You can also check their standing with organizations like the National Home Builders Association. It is always a good sign if they have specialized training to cater to the needs of seniors aging in place, such as a CAPS certification which means they are Certified Aging in Place Specialists.
Don’t hesitate to ask for references. A reputable contracting company will not only be able to provide you with references you can contact but also photos of previously completed projects and even arrange for you to visit a home where they have recently completed a job. This will give you a good idea of the standard of work you can expect. Arrange a meet-and-greet between the contractor and your loved one before you seal the deal, to make sure that they are a good fit.
Facts and trends in Philadelphia home construction for seniors
What should caretakers in Philadelphia know about accidental falls?
Seniors are especially vulnerable to having accidental falls because their balance and coordination deteriorate as they age. The bathroom is an area of the home that poses significant risks for accidental slips and falls. The table below, based on research done by the CDC, sets out the number of fatalities nationally and within Pennsylvania that occur as a result of falls:
A senior bathroom remodel is one of the easiest ways to keep your loved one safe as they age in place. Simple inexpensive changes such as installing grab bars in the shower, near the tub, and next to the toilet, as well as changing out high pile floor rugs for low-pile non-skid options, can go a long way to preventing accidental falls.
What are some ways smart technology can help seniors in Philadelphia?
Smart technology can make life safer and more convenient for your senior, while also giving you the ability to check in on them from afar if needed. It can enable your loved to turn lights and appliances on and off, as well as adjust the thermostat with the touch of a button. It can also help them to keep track of important dates and appointments, or even remind them to take their medication at the right time.
- Controlling lights, appliances, etc.
- Setting alarms or reminders
- Providing short, senior-specific workouts
- Allowing them to enjoy music easily
- Delivering news and weather reports
Smart technology can be a fantastic tool for your loved one aging in place. Whether they want to feel more secure while home alone or you want to be sure they don’t leave the fridge open or the stove on, any system can be tailored to the specific needs of you and your loved one.
What are some common concerns and solutions for aging in place in Philadelphia?
Given that mobility tends to decline with age, common concerns for seniors and their loved ones include the safety and accessibility of the home. In order to accommodate seniors who use wheelchairs or walkers, ramps can be installed where there are stairs, and hallways and doorways can be widened. The height of bathroom and kitchen sinks and counters might also need to be adjusted so that your senior doesn’t have to rely on others to complete the usual daily tasks. Anti-scald controls can protect your senior’s delicate skin from painful burns in the kitchen and bathroom. Replacing slippery floors as well as high pile rugs and carpets can also prevent accidental slips and falls
Home remodeling for seniors in Philadelphia
Whether you are looking for someone with the expertise for a Philadelphia bathroom remodel for seniors or would like to install a smart technology system in your loved one’s home, you can count on Seasons to help you find the right person for the job. Have a look at our Philadelphia aging-in-place remodeling review to get started on creating a safer environment for your loved one.