Are you and your home a "good fit"? If so, will your home continue to match your needs and abilities as you age?

Consider your community as well. Is it "livable"? Does where you live have affordable and appropriate housing, supportive community features and services, and transportation options so you can get where you need to go if you can’t or don’t wish to drive?

Livable homes and communities empower their residents to remain independent and engaged.

Most people don’t discuss or think about the appropriateness of their home until a crisis makes it obvious that they're living in a place that no longer meets their needs and abilities.

Your Home Livability Checklist

The following questions can help determine  if your home meets your current and future livability requirements. Your answers can identify if you need to make changes or perhaps search for a more suitable home.

1. Is there at least one step-free entrance into the home?
   
   
2. Does your home have a bedroom, full bath and kitchen on one level?
   
   
3. Are the doorways and hallways wide enough for a wheelchair to pass?
   
   
4. Do the doorknobs and faucets have lever handles, which are easier to use than rounded knobs?
   
   
5. Are the kitchen countertops mounted at varying heights, so they can be used while standing or seated?
   
   
6. Can the kitchen and bathroom cabinets and shelves be easily reached?
   
   
7. Does the bathtub or shower have a non-slip surface?
   
   
8. Are there grab bars in the bathroom, or has the wall been reinforced so they can be added?
   
   
9. Are the hallways and staircases well lit?
   
   
10. Are there secure handrails on both sides of stairways?
    
    
11. Can light switches, electrical outlets and thermostats be easily reached, even when seated?
    
    
12. Can the windows be opened with minimum effort?
    

Next: How an occupational therapist can help. >>