Aging in Place Home Modifications for People Living with Angelman Syndrome
Home modifications planned by a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) can make living with Angelman Syndrome easier and safer.
According to the National Library of Medicine, Angelman Syndrome is a complex genetic disorder that primarily affects the nervous system. Characteristic features of this syndrome include delayed development, intellectual disability such as fascination with water, severe speech impairment, sleep disorders, seizures (epilepsy), problems with movement and balance (ataxia), and a small head size (microcephaly).
Examples of aging-in-place home modifications specific for people living with Angelman Syndrome includes:
Turn off water faucets using shut-offs
Use automatic faucets or other variations that turn off water automatically
Turn water heater down and/or install anti-scald faucets (or thermostat controlled faucets)
Remove drain plugs to prevent child filling sink or tubs
Create a water resistant play area inside/outside
Don’t have a large unmonitored swimming pool
Additional handrails or grab bars at entrances, toilet and bathing areas, stairs, and in hallways
Nonslip surfaces on stairs and steps
Remove hazards in walking areas such as rugs and different elevations
Clearly mark changes in walking surface to be easily visible
Non-skid floor or mat in the bathtub or shower
Water-resistant and slip resistant flooring in any potentially wet areas
Ensure a place for hands to hold (ex. handrail) at all steps, stairs, or uneven surfaces, as well as at places that challenge balance such as getting into the tub or off the toilet
Video monitors in bedroom
Room for specialty bed if needed
Avoid sharp corners or edges, use rounded corners
Remove stone around fireplaces, or padded covers
Remove locks on doors and have door open outward for safety, especially in bathroom