Let’s be Engineers Our parents’ life span is far great than their parents. Now that the elderly are living a much longer, modifications and accommodations could potentially be needed to be made to maintain their independence. The modification can possibly prevent accidents as well. Many of the same modifications and accommodations implemented for the disabled can be beneficial for the elderly. Several elements need to be taken in consideration when planning modifications. Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) suggest the modifications should improve the following features of the home: accessibility, adaptability, universal design and visability. Accessibility improvements entail such things as
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The study took on a two phase approach. Phase one entailed occupational therapist observing 34 participants performing bathing and toileting activities before adaptive equipment and instructions were given. Phase two was telephone surveys of 75 participants who used TAG ADAPT. The clients were referred to the community program by medical social services and community agencies. TAG ADAPT conducted home visits then ordered the needed equipment to be delivered and installed by local merchants. TAG ADAPT’s recent concern was the increase in referral for patients with multiple chronic conditions and complex health and self-care difficulties. At the writing of the article home modifications weren’t funded by Medicare nor private insurances. TAG ADAPT’s program successfully allowed the participants to remain or regain their independence. The equipment provided reduced the clients’ necessity for personal …show more content…
Cabinets and drawers would have C or D shaped handle because it is easier to grip. Lowering the upper cabinets, the dishes become more accessible. The controls on the stove located on the front panel. Refrigerator model will have freezer on the bottom. The lever handles makes using the faucets easier. The sink counter becomes wheelchair accessible. Next, several accommodations are necessary in the bathroom. For instance, bathtub and shower needs a built-in seat which would eliminate fall accidents. Grab bars installed in the tub/shower also helps detour falls. The newer tub model, which has a door, eliminates having to step so high to enter the tub. Lower commode or a raised seat for wheel chair transfer. A moveable shower aids when sitting. Finally, there are general modifications for the entire house. All doors and hallways should be 36” wide, since that accommodates the average wheel chair. Lever door handles and rocker light switches allow easy opening of doors and turning off lights. Wheelchair ramp at the front and back
The study took on a two phase approach. Phase one entailed occupational therapist observing 34 participants performing bathing and toileting activities before adaptive equipment and instructions were given. Phase two was telephone surveys of 75 participants who used TAG ADAPT. The clients were referred to the community program by medical social services and community agencies. TAG ADAPT conducted home visits then ordered the needed equipment to be delivered and installed by local merchants. TAG ADAPT’s recent concern was the increase in referral for patients with multiple chronic conditions and complex health and self-care difficulties. At the writing of the article home modifications weren’t funded by Medicare nor private insurances. TAG ADAPT’s program successfully allowed the participants to remain or regain their independence. The equipment provided reduced the clients’ necessity for personal …show more content…
Cabinets and drawers would have C or D shaped handle because it is easier to grip. Lowering the upper cabinets, the dishes become more accessible. The controls on the stove located on the front panel. Refrigerator model will have freezer on the bottom. The lever handles makes using the faucets easier. The sink counter becomes wheelchair accessible. Next, several accommodations are necessary in the bathroom. For instance, bathtub and shower needs a built-in seat which would eliminate fall accidents. Grab bars installed in the tub/shower also helps detour falls. The newer tub model, which has a door, eliminates having to step so high to enter the tub. Lower commode or a raised seat for wheel chair transfer. A moveable shower aids when sitting. Finally, there are general modifications for the entire house. All doors and hallways should be 36” wide, since that accommodates the average wheel chair. Lever door handles and rocker light switches allow easy opening of doors and turning off lights. Wheelchair ramp at the front and back