It Won't Come As A Surprise That The

Grab bars in showers; removal of any door threshold. Ramps for those using walkers and wheelchairs.These older Americans want their independence, but they also need to be able to function in their own homes.. Of those polled, 85% said they have already made simple changes to their homes, such as placing non-skid strips in bathtubs, safety bars in showers and handrails on both side of the stairwells. As many as two-thirds of those who made modifications to their home believe those improvements will help allow them to live in their homes longer than they would have been able otherwise, most estimate for another ten years or more. As Americans continue to live longer and demand independence, these types of improvements will likely continue to increase. The most popular improvements were focused and accessibility and home safety.The top 10 most popular home improvements reported were: Levered doorknobs.It won't come as a surprise that the vast majority of middle-aged and older Americans want to remain living independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. This regular survey, based on telephone interviews of 2,000 persons age 45 and over, examines the opinions and behavior of middle-aged and older Americans regarding their current and future housing situations. The survey found that seventy percent of those who are able to make alterations to their homes have made at least one modification in order to make it easier for them to get around. Handrails on both sides of stairwells and on front and rear steps. Movable shower heads for those who must sit. Levered faucets in kitchen sinks. Widened doors to accommodate wheelchairs. A bathroom with a bath/shower as well as a bedroom on the first floor. Grab bars in bathrooms. Portable.