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Adapting the Bedroom to Make It More Comfortable
Most of us envision our bedrooms as a haven. It's a place where we take off our shoes and relax. We spend a lot of time in the bedroom, as our day begins and ends there. As time passes, our needs and abilities may change. Drawers become difficult to open, we need more room to maneuver, and shelving may be too awkward to deal with. It may be time to take a fresh look at that inner sanctum and think about making some adjustments.
The staff at Dynamic-Living.com has put together a checklist of possible changes for people who would like to remain comfortable in their own home for as long as possible. In addition, if you are moving to a new residence this checklist may provide some criteria for you to consider.
You'll want the ability to get around the room easily.
Do you have ample floor space to maneuver a walker, wheelchair or other mobility aids, like scooters, canes or crutches?
Is there is a place to store these devices so that they are easy to reach, but not in the way? Is there enough clear floor space to maneuver in? Experts recommend a 60" radius for turning, or at least a T-shape pathway that would allow you to turn around to approach a door or a dresser. You will want at least 36" on both sides of the bed and maybe even as much as 60" on one side if you'll need the help of an aide. Is the path out of the bedroom clear and accessible in the event of a fire?
Are the doorways to your bedroom, bathroom and closet accessible?
Do you have thresholds higher than ½" that could be hard to cross with mobility devices? Are the doorways into the bedroom and bathroom are at least 32" wide? If the doors are not wide enough for you to pass through without scraping your knuckles, you may need to take them off their hinges. Another solution is to add offset hinges that make the full width of the door frame available. Is the door able to open fully? Make sure that there is nothing behind the door or blocking the path through the opening. Are there safety locks that can be opened from either side in the event of an emergency? Does the door open outwards so that it cannot be blocked in the event of a fall?
Clear the floor of potential tripping hazards.
To prevent slipping, make sure area rugs are securely fastened to the floor or removed completely. Remove extra furniture and accessories, in order to have clear pathways. Decorate using contrasting colors for furniture and bedspreads. This makes it easy to see where the furnishings stop and start against the flooring and walls. Take care that electric wiring and telephone cords are not under carpets or hanging loosely where you might get caught in them.
Poor lighting can affect your comfort in a variety of ways. You'll want to be sure that you have the following:
Overall room lighting that is adequate for mobility and for getting dressed, as well as extra lighting in the closet to select and store your clothing. Reading lights that are easy to reach and operate. Be sure that lamps are not in a position to be knocked over. A light switch right by the entrance into the room. The switch should be within reach from a standing or seated position. The switch plate should be a contrasting color to make it easier to see. Nightlights to mark pathways in the dark and to help with general room orientation without being overly bright so as to disturb sleep. Window coverings that are easy to open and can reduce glare from sunlight or bothersome outdoor lighting. This may require two layers so that there can still be some sunlight during the day. Easy to open windows in good repair. If sash and crank openers become too difficult, sliding windows may be a solution.
While it is important for closets and storage to be able to hold all your things, you also need to have access to everything you store there.
Beware of falling objects. You don't want sweaters or shoes falling on your head when you reach for them overhead.
Do some reorganizing with adjustable shelves and drawers that are within easy reach. Move coat hooks and clothing rods lower if you have difficulty reaching. Use shallow shelves that are no more than 18" deep. Make use of baskets, slide-out shoe racks, belt hangers and other conveniences that are available to help you organize for your comfort. Replace handles on doors and dressers to make them easier to open.
Many of these suggestions don't require a lot of time and they aren't expensive. Take the opportunity to take a good look at your surroundings while you do your spring cleaning. Treat yourself to a few modifications that could make a big difference in your ability to maintain your independence for a long time to come. The effort might feel like a luxury, but you're worth it!
© Copyright 2006 Dynamic Living, Inc.
Dynamic Living Newsletter may only be redistributed in its unedited form. Written permission from the editor must be obtained to reprint or cite the information contained within this newsletter.
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