It can be hard to commit to making home adaptations that are permanent. As one ages certain activities become more difficult with the traditional structure of home appliances and layout.
This article will provide some insight on home modifications and home adaptations. What are they and how can you find the what modifications fit best in your home?
What is the difference?
Home remodeling and home renovations are similar in the fact that they permanently alter the home to better suit the needs of its occupants.
Home remodeling takes the current appliances and layout of the home and modifies it to better accommodate the resident. An example of this type of adaptation would be cutting out a side of a tub. This allows for easier entrance and exit without completely removing the tub.
Home renovations are the complete change of an aspect of the home to allow easier living for the resident. An example of this type of home adaptation would be lowering all of the counters in the kitchen. This would allow access to wheelchair bound individuals.
What are other characteristics that could help determine which home adaptation fits your situation best?
Price
Due to the complete transformative process of home renovations, renovations are often much more expensive than home modifications.
Modifications can be completed under $2,000. However, renovations often push well over $10,000 depending on the adaptation. Take into account that there are many local and government run programs that offer financial aid and funding for adaptations.
Completion Time
Home modifications are less intrusive when it comes to changing the home completely. Many modifications can be complete within a few hours without disrupting the flow of residents in the living space. Home renovations can be much longer, taking multiple days depending on the intensity of the alteration.
Longevity
Durability of home adaptations is generally reflective on the quality of service provided by the company doing the adaptation. Both of these types of adaptations are permanent and longevity should not be a major concern.
Usability
Determining out what is needed for you can be an intimidating process. But, many companies such as Get a Grip offer assistance in helping determine what adaptation is best for you. Occupational therapists and renovation experts are a key resource for determining ways to mitigate risk. They are experts at identifying ways to amplify quality of life. Remember, adaptations are meant for you or your loved one to get the most out of their home for as long as possible.
Barriers and Considerations
A lot of thought should be put into the decision to get a home adaptation. For example, here are a few questions to ask yourself and loved ones prior to committing to a home adaptation.
- Will this adaptation devalue the home?
- How useful will this adaptation be?
- How long will it be in use for?
- Can an adaptation be placed without making the resident uncomfortable (making the home feel “too medical”, etc)?
- How does my loved one feel about receiving an adaptation?
- How will COVID-19 influence my ability to do a modification? (Learn more here)
In conclusion, home adaptations are a large decision in many ways and picking what fits you is most important. If you are thinking about receiving a home adaptation you can call your Care Concierge at 833-604-1354. Or you can make an appointment here to find resources in your area.
For more information and helpful resources on home modifications, please check out the videos below.
Get A Grip: YouTube Channel.
Get A Grip Construction is a company that specializes in home safety and home adaptations.
