by Jane Regan

Photos © 2011 Jane Regan

February 2011 — Aging brings with it some new challenges for the Boomer generation. Understanding aging-in-place concepts is really important to this independent, adventurous, socially active generation. As we age, things do change, and it’s important to make some decisions in advance, so your wishes can be carried through.

On the Coastside, we pride ourselves on being self-reliant, but the climate can play havoc with our homes and surroundings, so it is important to take control of our own domains. Decks need to be checked, gutters cleaned. Things like cracks in the sidewalks or an uneven set of entry stairs may prevent us from being completely independent as we start to lose youthful mobility.

The reading glasses, the increased visits to the dentist, the additional medications, the switch from racquetball to golf — these are all indicators that our bodies are changing with age. To adapt to this aging, one thing we need to consider is the type of care we wish to receive — and the setting in which we get that care — should something happen to us.

Most of us would choose to stay in our homes as long as possible, even if it means having care-giving services. But in order to really make the most of our later years, it helps if we prepare our homes for the future. Here are some ideas on how to do that.

1. Make an accessible entry into your home. If there’s a stairway, add handrails on both sides, and make certain the stairs are tiled with slip-proof tile, coated with non-slip material. Have a visible color at the edge of the step.

2. If possible, set up your master bedroom on the main floor with access to your kitchen and a master bath.

3. Make your bathroom and kitchen maintenance-friendly and easy to clean. Remove or replace old, out-of-date or broken appliances.

4. Modify storage areas, swapping out base cabinets for base drawers. Lower the shelving and the clothes-hanging bars in closets.

5. Raise or lower appliances for easier access. Most have adjustable feet, or can be purchased with an extender.

6. Get an easy-to-clean toilet that’s at a comfortable height. One of the “skirted” types are best.

7. Add sturdy handrails — or reinforce those you already have — in hallways and around the outside of the home.

8. Consider all aspects of safety for the bathroom. Consider tub, toilet and shower access — as well as slippery spots, and areas for potential grab bar placement.

9. Use GPS devices, Skype and other forms of technology to improve your quality of life. Get one of your grandkids to help!

10. Maintain your vitality, health and wellness by getting out regularly, volunteering, socializing with others through a book club or hobby, and keeping your medical and dental appointments.

Jane Regan is the owner of HB Building + Design, a Coastside general contracting firm specializing in design/build for aging in place. Contact her at 650-728-5878 or by e-mail at jane@hbdesigninc.com.