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Friday March 6, 1998

Alterations to a home help seniors

According to most gerontologists, personal happiness in later life is the direct result of an individual's continued physical ac
But for some, diminishing physical abilities can make the activities of daily routines around the house difficult to manage.

Vision loss

*Clearly mark with white or reflecting tape hazardous changes in floor levels.

*Adjust the illumination throughout your home. Use higher-wattage light bulbs where appropriate.

Hearing loss

*Carpet the floors and put curtains in windows to reduce sharp noises and distracting echoes.

*If necessary, purchase hearing aids, special-needs phones, vibrating alarm clocks, an amplified TV set or flashing lights to announce information and warnings.

Hand limitations

For people with arthritis or other dexterity-limiting conditions:

*Install larger lever-type controls on faucets, door latches and appliance knobs. Modify an existing knob control by fitting a rubber furniture leg cap over the control and inserting a small wooden dowel through it to create a level arm.

*To determine whether a control can be used by a person with a dexterity problem, try this rule of thumb: If an able-bodied person can operate the control with his or her fist closed, then almost anyone, regardless of hand disability, will be able to operate the control.

Disorientation and dizziness

*Use furnishings that are stable and without sharp corners to minimize the effects of a fall.

*Remove scatter rugs, sharp objects and clutter, but retain the layout of familiar furniture and pathways.

Mobility impairments

*Relocate bedrooms and living spaces onto the same level.

*Store frequently used household items where they can be retrieved with a minimum of bending, reaching, lifting and carrying.

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