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Home Modification

Home Modification refers to products or the process of making changes to your environment to promote longevity, accessibility, and safety in your home environment.  Some suggestions may be an entry ramp, walk-in shower, removing throw rugs, a life alert system or levered handles.  Being safe at home also means maintaining your personal safety and abilities through programs that support Fall Prevention.  Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and significant injuries for elders.  According to the National Council on Aging, 1 in 4 adults over 65 will experience a fall per year. 

Articles:

Services:

  • Southeast Alaska Independent Living (SAIL) provides a number of services to support aging in place.  They have a durable medical equipment loan closest, Home Map services, and a dedicated staff available to assist you.

Technology Examples:

1. Video Doorbell: This smart technology from Ring, and other providers, hooks into existing doorbells that enable a homeowner to see who comes to the door via a cell phone or computer.  This technology may be monitored by the elder or a support like a POA or family member.

2. Voice and Remote Thermostat: This tool (Google Nest, Amazon Smart Thermostat, and others) helps monitor thermostat functions including furnace and air conditioning by voice or by cell phone. This technology may be monitored by the elder or a support like a POA or family member.

3. Virtual Assistant: Amazon’s Echo or Google Home allows homeowners to control their home with their voice – locking doors, turning lights on and off, adjusting the thermostat or viewing camera feeds

4. Stove Fire Prevention Devices: These devices automatically shut off a stove if it is left unattended for a specific time. Devices like this are especially helpful for older adults living with dementia.

5. Home Monitoring Systems: Monitoring systems could help family caregivers make sure their loved ones are safe and secure. To allow for independence, some systems do not require human intervention and have the ability to monitor even body temperature and sleep.

Fall Prevention:

Accidental falls in the home are a leading cause to health decline for older persons.  There are many ways to avoid falls and to plan ahead to reduce your risk.  For more information visit the State of Alaska Department of Health Alaska Senior Fall Prevention Program.

 

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