AGING-IN-PLACE is a growing trend among retirees, individuals with long-term disabilities and those with physical challenges who desire to remain in their homes. Rising health care costs, a rapidly-aging population and resurgent housing market are creating a demand for home-based modifications and design/build services.
Aging-in-place is a growing trend among retirees, individuals with long-term disabilities and those with physical challenges who desire to remain in their homes.
Rising health care costs, a rapidly-aging population and resurgent housing market are creating a demand for home-based modifications and design/build services. In addition, an increased rate of falls within the home have created public health issues. Government agencies, aging-in-place (AIP) design consultants and contractors are paying close attention and providing solutions.
Depending on the needs of the family, design consultants and contractors apply universal or accessible design and build services. ‘Universal’ refers to a visit-friendly environment and ‘accessible’ addresses specialized and individualized needs.
Accessible design applied to an existing home will maximize the homeowner’s ability to function with increased safety and independence. New construction provides a home for the next 50 or more years. According to Trusted Transitions NW, “Building it right the first time is a wise use of our natural resources and serves future generations.”
Trusted Transitions NW, principal, Christine Evoniuk, has served in the field of Occupational Therapy for over 20 years. Rehabilitating the elderly provided insights about the challenges patients experience upon discharge. Common modifications include adding grab bars, installing higher toilets, upgrading to a curb-less shower, widening doorways, providing adjustable shelving and enhanced lighting.
“We need to remove the barriers in the home and provide environments that enable, instead of disable people” says Evoniuk.
This could be good news for Clark County residents, according to Mike Selig, Energy Efficiency Coordinator for Clark County. The county is working regularly with the Commission on Aging to insure they are more, rather than less prepared for what has been called the approaching ‘Silver Tsunami’ - the aging Baby Boom generation. Universal Green Design standards are considered voluntary, affordable and adaptable, allowing the builders and home buyers to select what features they will have in their homes. The market will drive the adoption of these standards that make homes safer for all occupants, but particularly for the aging and mobility challenged individuals.
As the daughter of a Puget Sound developer, Evoniuk combined her interior design and healthcare expertise to ensure modifications are aesthetically pleasing and functional. She’s the first in Clark County to combine these skills. Her credentials include NAHB Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) and Certified Green Professional (CGP).
“People are living longer and need their homes to be safe and user friendly,’’ Evoniuk said.
By consulting with a health care provider who specializes in environmental adaptations, homeowners can be well prepared for the next phase of their life.
“It’s like comfort and livability insurance for the aging and their families,” she said.
Trusted Transitions NW has been in business since 2011. They create safe, accessible environments to increase independence and comfort for individuals and their care givers. The company is a member of the BIA of Southwest Washington and Planet Clark partner for sustainable design. Troy Johns, green building leader and owner of Urban NW Homes, recently integrated the service of Trusted Transitions NW for custom builds requiring AIP design.
Trusted Transitions NW offers free home assessments or persons discharging from local rehabilitation facilities and hospitals. Comprehensive home assessment reports, home modifications solutions, interior design consulting, and project coordination are also available.
An AIP educational event is being hosted by Clark County and Trusted Transitions NW at the Fort Vancouver Library on April 24. For more information, go to www.trustedtransitionsnw.com, or contact christine@trustedtransitionsnw.com or (360) 910-5754.
