Healthcare Directory

68 | 2014-2015 Medical & Dental Directory CoNTriBuTeD By HoMe iNsTeaD senior services Make it safe for seniors at Home install grab bars on Walls near the shoWer or tub Seniors could be tempted to grab onto an unsecured towel bar or shower curtain and put themselves at risk for falls. Cost: Typically $30 to $60 for a good quality bar. With a professional's assistance, costs per bar for parts and labor will vary depending on installation. Convert to lever handle FauCets Water flow and temperature could be easier for arthritic fingers to control with a lever faucet. Cost: Usually between $70 and $150. Installation costs will vary due to plumber charges. add lighting to Closets and pantries Dark closets cannot only be safety hazards, they could make dressing more difficult for seniors. Cost to add a battery-operated light: Typically less than $25. Closet fixtures $20-$40. Installation costs will vary due to electrician charges. add sWing Clear hinges Narrow doorways could be difficult for walkers and wheelchairs to navigate. Replacing standard hinges with "swing clear hinges" allows the door to swing completely clear of the door opening. Cost: A pair of hinges generally costs between $20 and $30. Handyman costs will vary. replaCe Wall-mount shoWerheads With handheld shoWerheads on a hose Handheld showerheads are both convenient and safe because a senior can use the device as a fixed showerhead- adjustable to the proper height- or convert it to a handheld one. Cost: Generally between $45 and $90. If a plumber is needed, costs will vary. Home Fixes Under Safety suggestions brought to you by Dan Bawden, founder of the Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) for the National Association of Home Builders & Home Instead Senior Care. Fix 1 Fix 2 Fix 3 Fix 4 Fix 5 fivE $ 500 *Prices listed reflect only the national average. Prices may fluctuate in the Fayetteville/cumberland county market.

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