Aging in Place Home Modifications - An Answer for Covid 19 Threat to Assisted Living

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We have all heard the sad stories about the significant number of people in Assisted Living Facilities (ALF) and Nursing Homes succumbing to Covid 19. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers the following guidance for people living in Assisted Living Facilities (ALF). “Given their congregate nature and population served, ALFs are at high risk for Covid 19 spreading among their residents. If infected with Covid-19, ALF residents are at increased risk for severe illness.” The CDC goes on to list common measures to take to avoid Covid 19 such as face coverings.

I suggest that Aging in Place home modifications is a better answer for the Covid 19 threat to people living in ALFs. The same can be said for nursing homes. Loved ones who have relatives in ALFs or nursing homes should consider modifying a home to allow people to remain in their homes longer versus moving to assisted living or a nursing home.

Aging in Place home modifications incorporate Universal Design changes or additions that make a home safer and more accessible, especially for those with disabilities, regardless of their age. A Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) can help with the design and installation of aging in place home modifications.

Richard Acree is a CAPS consultant with many years of experience as a home inspector and accessibility inspector. For more information about aging in place services please see Residential Accessibility.

Please call 615-752-0060 for help with aging in place home modifications for your loved one.

Thank you.