Aging in Place Home Modifications for People Living with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Home modifications planned by a Certified Aging in Place Specialist can make living with Prader-Willi Syndrome easier and safer.
According to Beyond Accessibility, people living with Prader-Willi Syndrome can have decreased motor skills including low tone, ataxia, poor balance, decreased strength, and limited endurance. Symptoms unique to Prader-Willi Syndrome include food cravings, scoliosis, and body temperature regulation. Examples of aging-in-place home modifications specifically for people living with Prader-Willi Syndrome includes:
Refridgerator locks
Locks on food storage areas such as the pantry
Control access to whole kitchen with doors or gates that can be locked
Specific refridgerator in locked area
Alarms or monitors to notify adults of nighttime movement
Locks on storage areas for items not safe to consume, such as cleaning supplies
Plan for room with equipment as needed for scoliosis, such as supported seating and specialty beds
Plan for occasional surgeries and short-term wheelchair or walker use at home (main floor bedroom and bathroom, room in bathroom for wheelchair, wider doorways, zero-step entry or minimal steps that can be covered with a portable ramp)
Air conditioning in main living and sleeping areas
Ceiling fans
UV reflective window coatings
Window shades (can be insulated)
Update windows and doors for more stable indoor air temperatures
Zoned heating and cooling for the home
Covered/enclosed car parking (heated garage may be beneficial in cold climates)