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SIMPLE SOLUTIONS:Practical Ideas and Products to Enhance Independent Living

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Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Solutions Guide

■ Vision Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4• Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4• Visual Tasks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7• Color Can Make a Difference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

■ Hearing Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

■ Mobility and Balance Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

■ Strength, Dexterity and Reach Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20• Strength and Dexterity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20• Make Reaching Easier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

■ Memory Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

■ Fire and Burn Safety Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

■ More Simple Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Supplier Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Use this list to locate suppliers who sell the products included in the Solutions Guide.

Home Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Assess the comfort, convenience and safety of your home with this handy checklist.

Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Table of Contents

Have you taken a good look around your home to see if it willaccommodate the changes your body will likely go through asit ages? Have you done a similar scan at the home of an olderrelative or friend where you might be helping out?

It’s not a bad idea. We make sure our homes are protectedagainst break-ins and we’re vigilant about making them safefor visiting children. Why not make them more comfortableand convenient to accommodate the normal age-related physical changes that creep up on us? Why not make the homemore functional and safe to accommodate limitations we mayexperience due to disease or chronic health conditions?

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At some point, many of us will find that the house that once fit us so perfectly no longer does. Maybe it’s the stairs or the bathtub or the carpet or the lighting. But, given that most of us would prefer to remain in our homes rather than move, it makes sense to change our homes to accommodate these changing needs.

The Hartford Financial Services Group has created this guide of productsand ideas to help you create a living space that works well at all differentpoints in life. Whether you’re making a structural modification or buying asimple household product, you’ll find creative ways to make any homesafer and more comfortable for people of any age.

As you’ll see, most of these products are inexpensive and easy to install, and the ideas can make your home more functional without looking institutional.

This guide includes:

• A Solutions Guide, starting on page 4, which provides more than 200 products and ideas. For most products, a three-letter supplier code isprovided, along with the approximate retail cost.

• A Supplier Guide, beginning on page 40, with informationabout where you can obtain theproducts. (Because suppliersoften change their product offerings, be sure to contact them or check their websites for the latest information.)

• A Home Checklist on page 47that will help you apply theseideas to any home.

We hope you will find SimpleSolutions useful in creating a homethat can accommodate changingneeds and enhance independentliving for anyone.

Please note that the inclusion of a product in this guide does not constitute a productendorsement or warranty by The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. You are advised toevaluate for yourself the appropriateness of any product or idea listed.

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LIGHTING

Design and Other Ideas

• Provide sufficient, even lightingthroughout the house; you need morethan you think you do. A 60-year oldrequires approximately twice as muchlight to read as does a 20-year old. Start by increasing the amount ofnatural light; open the blinds and curtains and raise shades. Move largeitems that might be blocking light away from the windows.

• Add lighting to eliminate any dark orshadowy areas.

• Install additional lighting where safetyhazards exist, such as overhead in thebathtub and shower and in stairways,sites of most accidents in the home.

• Choose light-colored wall coverings,work surfaces and counters to increasethe reflectivity of available light.

• Control glare throughout the home by selecting matte-finish paint, wallpaper, counter tops, and othersurface materials.

Vision Solutions

Almost everyone experiences some deteriora-tion in vision by the time they reach 50. Wenotice the newspaper print is too tiny, andthe room is never bright enough. Most of usare bothered by these issues but we easilymanage them.

More difficult to deal with is the uncor-rectable “low vision” caused by eye diseasessuch as glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetes. People with low vision havetrouble reading, may be unable to distin-guish certain colors and often can’t see lowfurniture or a slightly raised surface like adoor threshold.

No matter what level of visual impairmentyou’re dealing with, the following solutionscan make any home a little brighter andeasier to navigate.

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Lighting Vision Solutions

Products

1 Use a 100- to 200-watt bulb toprovide extra light, and positionlamps carefully for such close-upactivities as cooking, dining, reading,writing, handiwork, shaving, andespecially, taking medication. Use awall or floor lamp with a swing-armto help direct light where you need it.Magnifying attachments are availablefor some task light options. ($30 -$200) Suppliers: ILA, LMP, LSS, SOL, VER

2 Use long lasting “daylight” or fullspectrum light bulbs, or purchase day-light lamp to reduce eye strain andimprove concentration. These glare-free bulbs are made of special glassthat allows the true spectrum ofcolors to be seen, enhances the con-trast between black and white, andcontributes to greater well-being. ($7 - $26 per pkg of bulbs; $30 - $210per lamp) Suppliers: HMT, ILA, LSS,MAX, TAY, VER

3 Install a cordless battery-operatedlight or use a cordless floor lampwherever additional lighting isneeded and no electrical outlets areavailable, such as in closets or cabi-nets, at your chair for reading, orabove a desk or table. ($8 - $40) Suppliers: AUB, HMT, HOM, LSS,MKC, QVC, SOL, SPL, TAY

4 Install fluorescent lights under over-head kitchen cabinets and over thestove to provide extra illumination formeal preparation. ($13 - $135) Suppliers: AUB, ELI, HOM, KCL,LOW, PRO

5 If you like to read in bed, buy a lightthat clamps onto the headboard toprovide better illumination. ($15 - $35) Suppliers: HAR, PLO, VER

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Vision Solutions Lighting

6 Place a night light in the pathwaybetween the bedroom and bathroom,where falls often occur. You maywant to opt for an automatic lightthat turns itself on at dusk and off atdawn, or one that is motion sensitive.($4 - $37) Suppliers: HMT, IMP,MAX, MKC, SOL, SPL, TAY, WDS

7 Add a motion-sensitive adaptor to anexisting light fixture or lamp so that itwill turn on automatically whensomeone enters the room. ($8 - $40) Suppliers: HMT, SOL

8 Adapt an interior light to turn on atdusk or at a predetermined time witha plug-adaptor into which a standardlamp or light bulb is inserted. ($8 -$13)Suppliers: HMT, IMP

9 Never come home to a darkenedfront door or sidewalk. Adapt theexisting exterior lighting at yourentry, porch or light post by simplyscrewing a solar-activated photoelec-tric socket into the light fixture, andthen screwing the light bulb backinto the socket. The light will auto-matically turn on at dusk and off atdawn. ($10) Supplier: SPL. Purchasesolar-powered light fixtures to lightyour sidewalk and yard. ($11 - $80)Suppliers: HAM, HMT, HOM, IMP,LOW, NAT, PLO, QVC, SPL, TAY.Battery-powered LED lights are alsoavailable. ($52/pair) Supplier: SPL

10 Install motion-sensitive security lightsfor extra exterior lighting coverage. ($13 - $60) Suppliers: HAM, IMP,NAT, SOL, SPL

11 Buy an emergency light that goes onautomatically during electricaloutages and doubles as a flashlight.($15 - $30) Suppliers: MAX, SPL

12 Make sure all lights, including chan-deliers, have translucent shades, aslooking directly into uncovered lightbulbs can be painful and hasten deterioration of the eye’s retina. ($5 - $30) Suppliers: JCP, LMP, PRO

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Vision Solutions

13 Use a handy sound-activated mini-light that snaps onto your house keyto illuminate a dark keyhole. The keylight yields a bright beam of light foran added measure of safety and con-venience. ($10 - $20) Suppliers: AMZ,HMT, MKC

14 Control glare from sunlight withproper window treatments.Miniblinds will deflect the sun’s light,while sheer draperies and translucentor perforated shades will diffuse it. Suppliers for miniblinds: HOM, JCP, LOW, SWF. Suppliers for pleated window shades:HOM, JCP, LOW, SWF. Suppliers for glare-reducing shades:HMT, JCP, LOW, NEW, ORV

15 Eliminate the glare of the sun, reducefading of drapes and furniture, andinsulate against heat and cold withtinted, transparent adhesive vinylplaced on the inside surface of yourwindows. ($25 - $35 per roll) Suppliers: HMT, IMP, MMM

VISUAL TASKS


• Keep emergency numbers clearly written in large type near all telephones.

Products

16 To compensate for difficulty inreading small numbers and fine print,buy items featuring large typefaceswith extra white space between linesof print. Examples include: addressbook; bathroom scale; books; calculator; calendar; check register;clock; cookbooks; crossword puzzlebook; dictionary; dominoes; measur-ing tape; personal organizer; playingcards; games; watch; thesaurus; timer;and window thermometer. Suppliers: DRL, HMT, ILA, LSS,MAX, MON, MKC, S&S, SPL, TAY,WDS

Vision Solutions Visual Tasks

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17 Make your own tactile, large printand/or Braille markings to ease identi-fication of controls on appliances andequipment. Handy options includestick-on letters/numerals, labels,buttons, and liquid marking systems. ($2 - $40 per pkg) Suppliers: ILA, LSS,MAX

18 Raised numerals and Braille dots on aruler or tape measure allow a personwith vision impairment to locate eachincrement of measurement. ($3 - $26)Suppliers: ILA, MAX

19 Large numbers on measuring cupsand spoons make reading measure-ments easier. Some measuring cupsand spoons are also color coded foreasy identification. ($4 - $7) Suppliers: ILA, MAX

20 Buy a thermostat that features largenumerals and raised temperature settings that click and vibrate eachtime the thermostat is adjusted. Somealso include a “talking” feature. ($14 - $80) Suppliers: HON, ILA, LSS, MAX, SMT. Or, buy a magnifierthat snaps over an existing round thermostat. ($12) Supplier: MAX

21 Buy large print stickers for pushbutton phones or a large print dialoverlay for rotary dial telephones.These items lay over the buttons ordial and feature large numerals andletters that are widely spaced for easyidentification. ($1 - $6) Supplier: MAX

22 Use a telephone that features largebuttons, a lighted dial, large textCaller ID, and volume and sound clarifying adjustments. ($20 - $200)Suppliers: HMT, ILA, LSS, MAX,QVC, WAL, WMT

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Visual Tasks Vision Solutions

23 Buy a “talking” alarm clock, watch, oralarm clock key chain with largenumerals and adjustable volume.Some clocks also project the time inlarge print text onto the wall orceiling. ($6 - $135) Suppliers: HAM,ILA, LSS, MAX, MKC, TAY

24 Avoid the need to read tiny print andreduce medication errors by using aTalking Rx that plays prerecorded prescription information. A pharma-cist or caregiver records instructionsfor taking the medication into theTalking RX. When the medicationbottle is set into the base and a buttonis activated, these instructions are readto the user. Two sizes are available toaccommodate different size contain-ers. ($15 - $27) Suppliers: LSS, MAX

25 Utilize other “talking” products toprovide important audible informa-tion for those with low vision: • Personal scale ($50 - $90)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX • Kitchen scale ($40 - $100)

Suppliers: LSS, MAX • Measuring container ($100)

Supplier: ILA • Coffee maker ($80)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS • Microwave oven ($140 - $370)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX • Kitchen timer ($12 - $74)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX• Indoor/outdoor thermometer

($16 - $20) Suppliers: ILA, MAX • Clinical and ear thermometer

($11 - $33) Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX

• Glucose meter ($20 - $85) Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX

• Blood pressure monitor ($50 - $600)Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX

• Pedometer ($8 - $15) Suppliers: ILA, LSS

• Calendar ($40) Supplier: ILA • Calculator ($9 - $545)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX • Compass ($70 - $75)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS• Tape measure ($100 - $120)

Suppliers: ILA, LSS • Weather forecaster ($130)

Supplier: ILA • Tire gauge ($15) Supplier: MAX

Vision Solutions Visual Tasks

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26 Attach a magnifier to the window of acell phone or smart phone to increasethe size of the window display foreasier reading. ($10 - $60) Suppliers:ILA, LSS, MAX. “Jitterbug” cellphones offer larger numerals/text,backlit buttons, color screen forclarity, and adjustable sound features.($147) Supplier: LSS

27 Attach a magnifying device to thescreen of your computer monitor(either laptop or standard). Somedevices also reduce painful glare onthe computer screen. ($35 - $92)Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX, SAM

28 Affix large print or Braille labels tothe keys of your computer keyboard.White on black as well as black onwhite options are available. ($8 - $22)Suppliers: ILA, LSS

29 Purchase a large-print keyboard withhigh contrast between the letters andthe keys. Some keyboards aredesigned for one-handed operation,are foldable, or feature Braille charac-ters. ($16 - $120) Suppliers: ILA, LSS,MAX

30 Increase the size of text on your com-puter screen with special Zoomtextsoftware that makes the text easier tosee, hear, and use. A special USB drivemakes it possible to use Zoomtext onany computer. ($400 - $700)Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX

31 Install television screen enlargers toincrease the size of any TV imagewithout distortion. ($35 - $115)Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX

37 A TV remote control with largebuttons and high-contrasting numerals/text is easy to use. Buttonson some models glow in the dark or“talk” when the buttons are pressed.($10 - $50) Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX,RAD

Visual Tasks Vision Solutions

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32 View text from books, personalpapers, and other reading material ina larger format on your TV or com-puter screen using a CCTV(electronic magnifier) device. Smallerwireless “mouse magnifiers” andportable CCTV devices are alsohelpful. ($50 - $2,900) Suppliers: HAM, ILA, LSS, MAX,TAY, WDS

33 Use a hands-free magnifier whendoing work with both hands. Choosefrom a magnifier for table use, anadjustable 36" stand or one thatfastens around the neck or about thehead. Some also include lighting. ($7 - $330) Suppliers: HAM, HMT,ILA, LSS, MAX, S&S, SAM, TAY,WDS

34 Keep a hand-held magnifying glass ormagnifying sheet handy. Someinclude a built-in light. ($2 - $100)Suppliers: DRL, HMT, ILA, LSS,MAX, SOL, SPL, WDS

35 A magnifying cap remover, called aMedi-Cap, can be handy when takingmedications. The 4x magnifier makesreading labels easier, while the designof the Medi-Cap facilitates theremoval of pill bottle tops. ($5 - $6) Suppliers: LSS, MAX

36 Small tools with a built-in magnifiersmake personal care activities easier:• Scissors ($6) Supplier: LSS • Nail clippers ($7 - $10)

Suppliers: LSS, MAX, TAY • Tweezers ($7) Supplier: LSS • Medication cap remover ($5)

Supplier: LSS • Pill cutter ($6) Supplier: LSS • Needle-nose pliers ($11)

Suppliers: LSS, MAX

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Vision Solutions

Design and Other Ideas • Choose colors that will remain visible

and can be differentiated from oneanother, for example, use colors from thered-orange family against blue, green orother cool colors.

• To help objects stand out from their back-grounds and to help distinguish betweensurface levels, furnishings, and potentialsafety hazards, use the “contrast principle”where the object you want people to seecontrasts with its background. For example,light-colored wall coverings will contrastwith darker floors to bring attention to avertical vs. horizontal surface. The colors ofdraperies, upholstery, furniture, cabinets –even the light switch plates and the table-ware – can be chosen to contrast with theirbackgrounds for enhanced visibility.

• Choose dishes that contrast with the colorof the table or place mat so they are easierto identify. The center of a plate should bea solid, light color so food can be seenclearly.

• To help signal a change in elevationbetween adjacent rooms, use flooring thatis in strong-contrasting colors. If the floorsare the same level, use the same or similarintensities of floor colors.

• Choose a counter top color that contrastswith the color of the floor beneath, toenable the counter’s edge to be easily seen.

COLOR CAN INFLUENCE OUR LIVES

Products

38 Those who have trouble discriminat-ing between colors can use a productthat “reads” and announces colors.Some products include an earphonejack and carrying case, and are available in both English and Spanish. ($140 - $750) Supplier: MAX

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Products

1 Install a volume-control attachmenton the telephone to enable the user toadjust the sound level of the caller’svoice. ($2 - $99) Suppliers: DRL, HIT, HMT, LSS, MAX, RAD, WAL.Or purchase a new telephone thatfeatures volume-control (some have“talking” caller ID features.) ($50 - $170) Suppliers: HIT, LSS,MAX, RAD

2 Add a ringer amplification device tothe telephone. ($8 - $45) Suppliers:HAR, LSS

Hearing Solutions

For various reasons, many of us experiencesome degree of hearing loss as we get older.Some of it is merely a nuisance – we mightfind it hard to hear certain tones or to hold a conversation in a noisy room.

But hearing problems can go beyond annoying and venture into dangerous if, for example, we can’t hear a smoke alarm orthe whistle on a teakettle.

The following design changes and productsaddress hearing issues with solutions that canhelp things sound a little clearer – and makethe home a little safer.


• Use carpeting, upholstered furnitureand fabric window treatments insteadof hard surfaces, such as wood and tilefloors and walls, to reduce echo andabsorb noise.

• Hang a textured, acoustical wallcover-ing where appropriate (e.g., over a deskor lowered work area in the kitchen) tohelp absorb sound and echoes. Theacoustical wallcovering can double as asurface for tacking up emergencyphone numbers, reminders and othernotices. Suppliers: COR, SWM

• Place chairs three to six feet apart andfacing each other to facilitate conversa-tion for people with hearing loss.

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Hearing Solutions

3 A flashing light can draw attention toa ringing phone. A special attachmentplugged into the phone jack connectsthe telephone to a lamp. When thephone rings, the lamp flashes. ($19 - $50) Suppliers: HIT, ILA, LSS,MAX, TAR

4 Purchase a new phone that illumi-nates to signal an incoming call orannounces Caller ID. Some phonesalso include volume and sound-clari-fying adjustments as well as otherfeatures helpful to those with hearingand/or sight limitations. ($22 - $200)Suppliers: HMT, ILA, LSS, MAX,QVC, WAL, WMT

5 Use television hearing devices thatallow an individual to listen to a TVwithout disturbing others. Thesedevices use invisible infrared rays tocarry sound from a TV set to a cord-less headset that allows the user freemovement over a 250-square-footroom. ($12 - $250) Suppliers: BRK,HIT, ILA, LSS, MAX, RAD, SPL, WAL

6 Use a watch or clock that vibrateshourly or at pre-set times. Some alsocoordinate with bed shakers, orvibrate when alerted by a smokealarm, doorbell, or baby monitor.($30 - $241) Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX

7 Extend the range of door chimes witha simple attachment to the chime box,which transmits the sound, up to 50feet away, to a receiver plugged intoany standard electrical outlet. ($15 -$120) Suppliers: ACE, HIT, ILA, SPL.Purchase a wireless door chime thatcan be mounted outside your door,and use a portable receiver anywherein your home. Some also include anadjustable volume control, strobelights and/or bed/chair shaker. ($20 -$64) Suppliers: HAR, HIT, HOM, ILA,LSS, RAD, SMT, SPL, WDS

8 Be alerted to someone knocking onyour door by a installing a device thattransmits the vibration to a flashinglight within your home. ($30 - $95)Supplier: HIT

9 For an added measure of safety, selectand install smoke detectors thatfeature flashing lights in addition toan alarm. ($80 - $190) Suppliers: FIR,ILA, MAX

Mobility and Balance Solutions

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Who among us hasn’t had a bum knee or abad back at some point? As we age, thechances of those injuries or ailments arelikely to increase. Arthritis, too, may take itstoll, causing stiffness and pain that canimpede our daily activities.

Compounding the mobility problem is thefact that our sense of balance can get a littlewobbly from age, disease or medication. Theresult can be a debilitating fall.

To address these issues of mobility andbalance, take a look at how these solutionscan help maintain a balance of safety andcomfort in the home.

Products

1 Avoid using throw rugs, a source ofslips, trips and falls. If throw rugsmust be used, secure them withdouble-sided carpet tape, self-stickcarpet mesh, or sprays. ($2 - $120)Suppliers: CMP, HMT, IMP, PLO,QVC, TAY


• A dense, level-loop carpet glued directlyto the floor without a pad will providegreater stability and better mobilitythan deep, heavy pile carpeting and athick pad.

• Many accidents occur on stairs, whenpeople lose their balance or fail to rec-ognize the last step or two. In additionto assuring there is sufficient lighting,install handrails with ends that curve intoward the wall and extend past the laststep, on both sides of the stairs. Thesewill provide support as well as providewarning that the last step is underfoot.

• Eliminate thresholds between differentflooring materials and between roomsto eliminate a tripping hazard.

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2 Do not carpet stairs. Instead, highlightthe edge of each stair with a texturedtape in a contrasting color. Mark stairsin dark or potentially dangerous areaswith a fluorescent tape that is nonskid,flexible and waterproof. ($5 - $156depending on length) Suppliers: CMP,HOM, HMT, LOW, MAX, NSP, VER. Or, use rubber stair treads to reduceslipping. ($6 per tread) Suppliers:HMT, VER

3 Replace a standard door hinge withan offset door hinge to add twoinches of clearance to a narrowdoorway and provide for greateraccess for wheelchairs and othermobility aids. ($10 - $25) Suppliers: DYL, MAX, SAM

4 Slide a “sofa saver” beneath thesagging cushions of chairs, sofas andmattresses to provide firmer supportand facilitate getting in and out of theseat or bed more easily. ($8 - $40)Suppliers: HAR, HMT, IMP, MKC,SOL, TAY, VER

5 Place an automatic “seat assist” inyour chair; this will enable you to get up more easily because it willgradually elevate you to your feet. No special installation, wiring, or electrical connections are needed. ($100 - $280) Suppliers: DRL, DYL,HMT, MAX, SAM

6 Use the handle of a bed support railto facilitate getting into or out of bed.Offering even greater stability andbalance, some types of rails include aplatform that slides securely betweenthe mattress and box spring, whileothers adjust in height to form abrace between the floor and ceilingalongside the bed. ($30 - $350) Suppliers: MAX, SAM, WDS, TAY

7 Reduce the potential for falls on a wetbathroom floor by installing a slipresistant flooring material, such assheet vinyl, vinyl tile, sheet rubber, orrubber tiles. Suppliers: ARM, FOR

8 Place a microfiber bath mat at theedge of the tub or shower to absorbwater on the bathroom floor andreduce the danger of slipping andfalling. To optimize safety, it’s best tochoose a color that contrasts with theflooring. Be sure to be aware of theedges of the mat when using. ($10 - $20) Suppliers: DRL, HMT,TAY

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9 Place a portable bath step with slipresistant surface and rubberized feetjust outside or just inside the edge ofthe tub. This makes getting into andout of the tub safer. Two steps can bestacked for use with deeper tubs. ($30 - $80) Suppliers: HMT, SAM,TAY

10 Use a specially designed “bath board”to make getting into and out of thetub easier and safer. The user simplysits on the edge of the tub and slidesacross the non-slip board surface. ($50 - $460) Suppliers: MAX, SAM


• “Low profile” furniture, such as a coffeetable or footstool, presents a trippinghazard. Place a low table between twochairs rather than in front of a sofa.

•Select seating with appropriate heights(approximately 17-18 inches from thefloor) and depths, well placed, widearms that extend to the front edge ofthe seat, and supportive backs – all ofwhich will make sitting down andgetting up easier. When you are seated,your upper legs should be parallel tothe floor, and your feet should rest flaton the floor. Chairs that are too low, too high or too deep do not provideappropriate back support and can causelegs and feet to swell or fall asleep.Chairs that do not include properlydesigned arms can contribute to poorposture, backaches, neck aches andmuscle fatigue.

• Install the bathroom vanity at a “back saver” height – 36” instead of thestandard 32” – to reduce the need forexcessive bending at the sink.

• Hang a vertical mirror so that itsbottom reaches to the counter top levelof the bathroom vanity to allow themirror to be used while a person isstanding or sitting.

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11 People who are unsteady on their feetcan bathe or shower more safely byusing a portable chair with a back andrubber feet. The chair is placed in thetub or shower. Some products includeseats that rotate for easier use, manyinclude arms, some have adjustableheight seats, and many can be foldedfor storage. ($25 - $276) Suppliers:DRL, DYL, HAM, HMT, ILA, IMP,MAX, SAM, SOL, TAY, WAL, WDS.For additional stability and comfort,use a combination safety seat/transferbench. ($80 - $540) Suppliers: DRL,ILA, MAX, SAM

12 Install a hand-held shower hose tomake bathing safer and easier. ($12 - $560) Suppliers: ALS, DYL,HMT, HOM, LOW, IMP, MAX, QVC,SAM, SPK, WAL. A wall-mountedhose holder installed at a convenientheight provides the perfect hangerwhen the hose is not in use. ($9 - $15)Suppliers: ALS, HOM, LOW, SPK

13 Place a non-slip, machine washableand mildew resistant vinyl mat in thebathtub and shower to help guardagainst falls. ($9 - $300) Suppliers: DRL, HAR, HMT, IMP,LIL, MAX, MKC, SAM, SOL, TAY,VER, WDS

14 Install a “comfort height” toilet withan 18” high seat (16 ½” to the rim) toreplace a standard residential toilet.($188 - $2,110) Suppliers: HOM,LOW

15 Add a seat extender to an existingtoilet to raise the height of the seat.($10 - $158) Suppliers: BEN, DRL,HMT, MAX, SAM, TAY, WMT. Somemodels also include arms for addedsupport. ($20 - $172) Suppliers: BEN,DRL, ILA, MAX, SAM, WMT

16 Install grab bars in the tub andshower. Be sure to securely mount thegrab bars into studs or walls backedwith wood blocking for additionalsafety. Otherwise, an unsteady indi-vidual might pull an unanchoredgrab bar from the wall, resulting in afall. ($12 - $230) Suppliers: DYL,MAX, SAM, WMT

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17 Install decorative grab bars that candouble as towel bars at key locationsin the bathroom, including adjacentto the toilet and within the tub orshower space. A grab bar providesgreater support for unsteady individu-als who may reach for a towel bar tosteady themselves. ($38 - $82)Suppliers: DYL, HOM, LOW, WMT

18 If wall-mounted grab bars are difficultto install, buy an adjustable safety railthat clamps onto the edge of anybathtub to provide a steady hand-holdwhen getting into or rising from thetub. ($7 - $70) Suppliers: DYL, HOM,HMT, ILA, KMA, LOW, MAX, SAM,TAY, WDS

19 Install a barrier-free walk-in bathtuband shower. These fiberglass tubslook like standard bathtubs, but comeequipped with a water-tight door foreasy walk-in access. ($3,610 and up,without installation) Suppliers: BAT,HOM, LOW

20 Lay tape that is textured and/or “glowsin the dark” in a contrasting color atthe threshold of the shower to markthe potential safety hazard of a raisedthreshold. The tape’s abrasive surfacealso enhances safety on a wet surface.($10 - $132) Suppliers: NSP, MMM

21 Install a wall-mounted, extendingmagnifying mirror near the vanity toallow a person to sit while shaving,applying makeup, inserting contactsor performing other personal grooming tasks. Portable, lightedmagnifying mirrors are also conven-ient. ($9 - $150) Suppliers: BRK, DRL,HAM, HMT, ILA, LSS, MAX, QVC,SAM, SOL, SPL

22 Maintain traction and balance whenwalking on ice and snow using stretchbands with grippers that slip overyour shoes or boots. ($17 - $20)Suppliers: QVC, SOL

Strength, Dexterity and Reach Solutions

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Products

1 As an inexpensive alternative toreplacing round doorknobs, buy leveradapters that can be clamped ontoround door knobs, converting theminto lever handles. ($7 - $23)Suppliers: DYL, MAX, SAM

No matter how hard we try to keep ourselvesstrong and fit, almost all of us lose somedegree of strength and dexterity as we age. It may get a little harder to lift a cooked dishout of the oven, to button a shirt or to carry abag of groceries.

The problem is even worse for frail adultswho may have had several impairments over the years and for those who have osteo-porosis or other diseases that can sap boneand muscle strength. They are more likely tofall – and the results can be serious.

Depending on the level of the problem, thereare a number of solutions to address issues ofstrength, dexterity and reach. See which oneswill help you create a more functional andcomfortable home.


• Replace round doorknobs with leverhandles. Round doorknobs pose problems for many people who havearthritis, limited strength or difficultygrasping. Lever handles also benefitsmall children or anyone who mayhave their hands full.

• Install a built-in wall oven at counterheight to reduce the need to bend overto move hot, heavy pans.

STRENGTH AND DEXTERITY

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2 Cover doorknobs, sink and tubfaucets, and outside water faucethandles with soft ribbed grips toprovide a non-slip gripping surfaceand make handling conventionalknobs and handles easier. ($4 - $10)Suppliers: MAX, SAM

3 Install lever faucet handles in thekitchen and bathroom sinks, and inthe bathtub and shower. ($40 - $1500)Suppliers: HOM, KOH, LOW, SPK

4 If changing sink, tub and showerhardware is too costly, buy a grippertap-turner that will fit over existingfaucets, converting standard faucetsinto lever faucets. ($10 - $12)Suppliers: DYL, MAX, SAM

5 Install a “touchless” water faucet,which automatically turns on theflow of water when you place yourhands under the faucet. These areideal for people with arthritis,rheumatism or limited dexterity. ($30 - $790) Suppliers: HOM, KOH,LOW, MAX, JCP, SPK, SPL

6 Install an oversized rocker switch toreplace standard wall-mounted lightswitches so that lights are easier toturn on and off. Some switches areilluminated and visible in the dark orfunction with wireless devices. ($3 -$35) Suppliers: AUB, HOM,LOW, SMT

7 Use special floor and table lamps thatfeature large on/off rocker switches ineasy-to-reach locations (instead ofsmall, round knobs located near hotlight bulbs). Some lamps comeequipped with night lights, handyconvenience outlets, weighted bases,and/or washable shades that giveglare-free lighting. ($165 table lamp,$202 floor lamp) Supplier: JES

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8 Replace the small, round on/off knobsfound on many floor and table lampswith easy-grip “lamp switch extensionlevers” that can be threaded ontomost standard lamps. Three largespokes on the new switches make iteasier for people with arthritis orlimited dexterity to turn lamps onand off. ($8 - $18) Suppliers: MAX,SAM

9 Avoid burns from hot light bulbs andeliminate the need to reach for diffi-cult-to-turn switches on lamps byconverting metal base lamps into onesthat can be turned on or off simply bytouching the base. Simply insert thegadget between the light bulb andsocket, or plug the converter into anoutlet. ($8 - $40) Suppliers: AMZ,HMT, LOW, SAM. Purchasing atouch-on table lamp is also an option.($45 - $90) Suppliers: JCP, TAR

10 Equip non-metal-base lamps andother small appliances with remoteon-off devices. ($20 - $35) Suppliers:AMZ, HOM, MAX, SPL

11 Install a voice- or sound-activatedadapter so that you can turn on lightsand other appliances without gettingup from your chair. Simply plug theadapter into any electrical outlet andthen plug the lamp, TV, etc., into theadapter. ($16 - $25) Supplier: AMZ

12 If your furniture has difficult-to-graspdrawer or door pulls, try attachingdecorative tassels that are easier topull. ($2 - $17) Supplier: HAN

13 Fit a triangular-shaped gripper with acenter hole over pens, pencils, tooth-brushes, and small tools so that theyare easier to grasp. Use steady-gripwriting pens or a writing aid to makewriting easier. ($2 - $30) Suppliers:ILA, LSS, MAX, OXO, S&S, SAM

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14 Use a button valet to pull difficult-to-hold buttons through a button hole.($8 - $17) Suppliers: DYL, HMT,MAX, SAM, SOL. Use a zipper-pullon difficult-to-hold zippers. ($5 - $17)Suppliers: MAX, SAM, SOL

15 Replace knobs or recessed grips withC-shaped drawer, cabinet and closetdoor handles for easier opening. ($1 - $25) Suppliers: HOM, LOW

16 Use a handy knob and dial turner tomake adjusting the controls onkitchen appliances easy. ($14 - $30)Suppliers: MAX, SAM

17 Look for cookware and lids withspecial ergonomically shaped handlesthat are easier to grip for persons withlimited hand, wrist, or forearmstrength, dexterity, and range ofmotion. Two handles are helpful onfrying pans and pots for more evenweight distribution. ($13 - $50 peritem; $49 - $500 for a set) Suppliers:AMZ, CHF, MAX, QVC, S&S, WMT

18 Consider installing energy-savingwindows that pop inward for easycleaning from inside the house.Suppliers: HOM, LOW

19 Cups and glasses should be easy for aperson with arthritis or an unsteadyhand to grasp. Choose short-stemmedor footed glassware. Look for mugswith large or double handles. ($3 - $52) Suppliers: MAX, SAM

20 Use bowls with non-slip bases to makemixing easier. ($9 - $30 incl. sets)Suppliers: CHF, QVC, MAX, WIL

21 Use non-skid rubber pads to holddishes firmly in place and to opentightly-sealed jars and bottles. ($3 -$250, item or roll) Suppliers: ILA,MAX, S&S, SAM

22 Use a toothbrush, razor, cutlery, smallutensil, or gardening tools with ergo-nomic handles. Or, use ergonomicholders into which the handles ofvarious products can slide. ($9 - $35)Suppliers: ILA, MAX, OXO, S&S, SAM

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23 A hands-free hair dryer stand allowsfor one- or two-hand styling. Its flexi-ble neck can be adjusted to any anglefor styling needs. ($25 - $46)Suppliers: MAX, SAM

24 Use a cutting board with suction-cupfeet to make slicing and peeling safeand easy. Some products featurecorner guards and steel prongs tohold food in place. Others includeknives. ($9 - $92) Suppliers: CHF,MAX, SAM

25 Turn a quart or half-gallon containerinto an easy-to-use pitcher with acarton holder designed for easy liftingand no-slip, no-spill pouring. ($4 - $8)Suppliers: ILA, MAX

26 A rolling mincer or food choppermakes mincing and chopping easyand safe and allows for one-handedoperation. ($5 - $35) Suppliers: CHF,ILA, LSS, MAX, PAM, QVC, WDS

27 Secure fruits, vegetables, bread ormeat while slicing by using a specialholder. This can help to prevent handinjuries. ($4 - $30) Suppliers: CHF,HMT, PAM, WDS

28 Use a double spatula turner to safelylift or turn hot or large food items.($4 - $9) Suppliers: ILA, MAX

29 Make cutting projects easier witheasy-to-grip or push-down scissors.These items allow a person to usegentle pressure to operate the scissorsand are self-opening once the pressurehas been released. ($10 - $30)Suppliers: HAN, MAX, OXO, SAM.Rolling scissors have no blades andrequire only a gentle push to cutthrough paper. ($4 - $15) Suppliers:AMZ, CON, PAM, SAM. Some scis-sors are battery-operated and requireonly a simple squeeze to start theblades. ($19 - $20) Suppliers: AMZ,B&D, TAR

30 A rocking T-knife or pizza cutter, or aslicer, can be used to cut food moreeasily than with a straight-handledknife. ($5 - $26) Suppliers: LSS, MAX,OXO, PAM, SAM

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31 Wear cut-resistant gloves to protecthands from cuts and scrapes whilepeeling, cutting, or dicing food, usingfood graters and zesters, pruning, orworking with hand tools. ($8 - $30)Suppliers: AMZ, ILA, MAX

32 To make screw-top lids easier to open,use a special hand-held jar and bottleopener or an opener that attaches tothe bottom of an overhead cabinet.($4 - $25) Suppliers: CHF, DYL,HMT, ILA, LSS, MAX, MKC, OXO,PAM, QVC, SAM, SPL, WDS. Someof these products are electric orbattery-powered. ($20 - $80)Suppliers: AMZ, B&D, MAX, SAM

33 To open cans with one hand, mountan electric can opener to the under-side of the overhead cabinet or use alightweight cordless hand-held canopener. ($18 - $38) Suppliers: B&D,CHF, DYL, ILA, MAX, MKC, SAM

34 Use a special accessory to opencartons, bags, and beverage containersmore easily. ($2 - $13) Suppliers:DYL, HMT, ILA, LSS, MAX, MKC,PAM, SAM, WDS

35 Select Lock & Lock or OXO foodstorage containers with specially-designed lids that can be opened orclosed with one hand or by thosewith arthritis. ($9 - $99 per set)Suppliers: AMZ, BBB, JCP, QVC

36 Add a detachable, flexible sink hose so you can fill pots on the kitchencounter, eliminating the need to liftheavy, water-filled pots from the sink.($10 - $20) Suppliers: HAR, HMT

37 To eliminate the need to stand forlong stretches while preparing meals,lower a section of the kitchen counterto table height and provide a comfort-able chair. This work area can alsodouble as a desk or computer area.

38 Use easy-hold nail clippers featuringoversized grips that are designed forpersons with diminished grip anddexterity. Some also feature a suctioncup base to stabilize the clippers. ($4 - $18) Suppliers: AMZ, MAX,WMT

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39 Use one of several new types of hand-held rolling snow removers, which donot require bending or lifting thesnow in order to clear a sidewalk ordriveway. As an alternative, use a snowshovel with an ergonomic handle.These items may be available on a sea-sonal basis. ($14 - $85) Suppliers:ACE, AMZ, IMP

40 Consider purchasing a lightweightvacuum that requires less strength topush than do conventional models.($40 - $400) Suppliers: HMT, JCP,MAX, QVC, TAY

41 Vacuum or mop your floor withoutbending and stretching using a roboticdevice that automatically traverses thefloor of your rooms. ($70 - $500)Suppliers: HAM, HMT, TAY

42 Use ergonomic garden tools that helpwrists maintain a neutral positionwhen the user is seated or kneeling atground level. ($12 - $40) Suppliers:AMZ, IMP, SAM, TAR

43 Increase your grip and leverage whenunlocking doors and overcome hard-to-turn locks by slipping an E-ZKey Turner over the key. ($4 - $13)Suppliers: MAX, SAM

44 Apply E-Z Lube & Slide lubricant tosliding patio door and window tracksso that persons with limited strengthand dexterity can open them moreeasily. ($8 - $11) Suppliers: HMT, TAY

MAKE REACHINGEASIER


• To put more shelves within easy reach,lower overhead kitchen cabinets to 15inches above the counter instead of thestandard 18 - 24 inches.

• Buy a side-by-side, self-defrosting refrig-erator-freezer, accessible to people withlimited reach, including wheelchairusers. Some persons may find a freezerat the bottom more convenient.

• Install the garbage disposal switch at thefront of the counter.

• Consider whether a sink with side-mounted faucets would be easier to usefor persons with limited reach, such aswheelchair users.

• Mount the medicine cabinet in thebathroom on the side of the sink atcounter height to increase the visibilityof contents and to make items moreaccessible.

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Products

45 Have a multi-use “reacher” handy forremoving lightweight items fromupper shelves or for picking updropped items. ($8 - $30) Suppliers:DRL, HAR, ILA, LSS, MAX, MKC,SAM, WAL, WDS

46 Reach items in higher places moresafely by using a step stool with ahandrail and steps covered with non-slip rubber mats. Wide-spreadlegs on the stool make the stool steadier. ($40 - $133) Suppliers: DYL,MAX, HMT, SAM, STA, WDS

47 Install extenders on difficult-to-reachwall light switches to make themaccessible from a sitting position. ($8 - $9) Suppliers: DYL, MAX, PER

48 Add a remote wireless light switch tofacilitate turning lights on from wher-ever you are in a room. The lightswitch plate self-adheres to the wall,while the wireless receiver screws intothe light bulb socket. ($33 - $35)Suppliers: AUB, SMT, SPL

49 Make contents in the kitchen moreaccessible with inexpensive organizersthat also increase storage space. Lookfor a swing shelf for under-the-sinkstorage, lazy Susans, pot/pan lidorganizers, roll-out can dispensers,spice racks, kitchen wrap organizers,and expand-a-shelves for cabinets. A sliding storage drawer/shelfinstalled inside wall-mounted andbase cabinets is also handy. ($5 - $30) Suppliers: CMP, GTO, HAR, HMT,IMP, LIL, LOW, MKC, SOL, SPL, STA,TAY, WDS

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50 Reaching your toes is easier whenusing a toenail scissor with a longer,easy-to-grip handle and angled head.($11 - $20) Suppliers: MAX, SAM,WD

51 Put on and take off shoes, socks, andhosiery without bending by using along-handled shoe horn or sock tool.($7 - $35) DRL, HMT, MAX, MKC,SAM, SPL, TAY, WDS. Other long-handled products include lotionapplicators and bath brushes. ($5 - $12) Suppliers: VER, WDS

52 Use magnetic paper- and hand-towelholders which can be attached to therefrigerator at a convenient height.($8 - $19) Suppliers: CON, GTO,HMT, STA, WDS

55 Turn a closet into a pantry for addi-tional, accessible storage. Installadjustable shelving. Increase storagespace by adding a storage shelf to theback of the pantry door. ($4 - $85)Suppliers: GTO, HAR, HOM, IMP,LIL, MKC, STA, WDS. Also availableare hanging wire baskets that slideeasily onto shelves to accommodatelinens, plates, kitchen wraps, andother shallow items. ($6 - $16)Suppliers: LOW, MKC, STA, TAY

56 Outfit bedroom closets with hangingor stacking shelves to make contentsmore accessible. ($8 - $32) Suppliers:CMP, GTO, STA

57 Organize items on kitchen or closetshelves by using vertical shelf dividerswhich slide onto shelves. ($5 - $25)Suppliers: GTO, HAR, HMT, LIL,STA

58 Create extra storage space and moreaccessible hanging space by adding asecond clothes rod that hangs fromyour existing closet rod. ($8 - $13)Suppliers: AMZ, GTO, STA

59 Place hanging clothing within easierreach by attaching a multi-loop hookto the clothes rod. Standard hangersare then hung in the loops. ($5 - $36per set) Suppliers: AMZ, HMT, STA

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60 Use tools with long handles to moreeasily undertake household tasks. • Featuring a non-allergenic, electro-

statically charged fiber head, along-handled duster reaches ceil-ings, cabinets, etc., and attracts dust.($15 - $100) Suppliers: HMT, LIL,MKC, PLO, QVC, SPL, WDS

• Use a long-handled dust pan andbrush to clean up without having tobend over. ($7 - $25) Suppliers:HMT, MKC

• Make cleaning your floors, walls,tubs, and showers easier by using aswivel-head mop or brush on a longhandle; these facilitate cleaninghard-to-reach spots without bendingor getting on your hands and knees.($7 - $100) Suppliers: HMT, OXO,QVC, SAM, SPL, VER, WDS

61 Clean overhead gutters without standing on a ladder by using a“gutter blaster” with long handle. ($7 - $30) Suppliers: MKC, SPL

Design and Other Ideas• Keep people with dementia current

about daily activities and importantappointments by using memory aidssuch as a big calendar, a list of dailyactivities, and written instructions forvarious tasks.

• Help family member find kitchen items more easily by attaching picturesillustrating a cabinet’s contents to thefront of the cabinet door.

• Use appliances that have automaticshut-off devices, such as irons, toasterovens and coffeemakers.

• Remove unnecessary furniture to makeit easier for someone with dementia to navigate their way around a room andeasily find their way out.

Memory Solutions

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As we age, many of us may struggle toremember a name or forget where we put ourglasses. Such occasional forgetfulness can bebothersome, but usually isn’t serious.

But for some older people, memory problemssignify a more serious problem such as mildcognitive impairment or dementia. Dementia is the loss of thinking, memory, and reasoningskills to the point where it seriously affectssomeone’s ability to carry out daily activities.

People with Alzheimer’s disease or othertypes of dementia need a safe home that will accommodate them as their disease progresses. Their caregivers need to look atthe home through a new lens to identify andcorrect safety risks. The following solutionscan help them create an environment that issafer and easier to manage.

(NOTE: Because the progression of dementiais unique to each individual, caregivers shouldtailor adjustments to those specific needs andmake adjustments over time, as needed.)

Products

1 Locate your misplaced keys or otheritems with a wireless key/object finder.Press a button on the locator deviceand an alarm attached to the lost itemwill sound if it is within 60 feet. ($50 - $80) Suppliers: BRK, ILA

2 Wear a timer around your neck toremind you of food in the oven, starting time for an event, or otherimportant tasks. ($5 - $13) Suppliers: AMZ, HMT, LSS

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Memory Solutions

3 Touch the photograph of a familymember, friend, or service provider onthe Photo Phone to automatically dialthat individual. ($30 - $180) Suppliers:HIT, ILA, LSS, MAX, SAM. Photo-dialing attachments can also be pur-chased to be added to existing phones.($60 - $70) Suppliers: LSS, MAX

4 Use a small digital recorder to keeptrack of schedules, phone numbers, “to do” lists, and other importantinformation. ($10 - $160) Suppliers:ILA, LSS, MAX

5 Be reminded of the time to take yourprescriptions by using a special organ-izer with a “voice reminder” and anaudible or vibrating alarm. Theseorganizers also include features toprevent persons from taking too manypills or from taking their pills at thewrong time. Some also document thatmedication was dispensed or includereminders for other tasks such asblood pressure monitoring; some canbe secured to the wall so they are notmisplaced. ($40 - $600) Suppliers:EPL, TWS

6 Install a motion sensor alarm ondoors and windows to alert householdmembers of an individual’s attempt towander from the home. ($10 - $87)Suppliers: HSS, MAX, SMT. Specialalarms for garage doors are also avail-able. ($24) Supplier: MAX

7 Place a water alert sensor in a sink, tub,or basement to signal a flood or over-flow. When the water alert sensor isactivated, it sends a loud signal to thereceiver, providing audio and visualindicators. ($13 - $356) Suppliers:HOM, HSS, LOW, MAX, SMT, SPL

8 Store important emergency, medicaland personal contact information inthe IdentityPal personal USB identifi-cation tag so that this data is availablein the event the wearer of this smallUSB storage device becomes lost orcannot communicate his or her needs.($45 - $50) Suppliers: QVC, SMT

Fire and Burn Safety Solutions

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Our homes contain many fire hazards,including one we don’t like to think about –ourselves. Most fires do not start sponta-neously, but result from our unintentionalactions or oversights.

As we age, even the healthiest among us haveincreased fire and burn risk. Changes inreflexes and dexterity may slow reactiontime. Changes in skin can diminish the sensation of pain. Decreased lung capacitycan exacerbate smoke inhalation injury.Limitations in vision, hearing or judgmentcan hinder the ability to detect a fire orescape its effects.

The following design ideas and products canhelp you be prepared and protect yourselfand your loved ones from the dangers of fire.


• Buy a range with staggered burners on the top and with controls at the front toeliminate any need to reach over hotburners, pots and pans.

• When replacing wallcoverings or flooring,check to be sure that new materials are“Class A” or “Type I,” meeting the most stringent fire safety standards.

• Set the hot water heater at a safe tempera-ture (110-120 degrees). Most hot waterheaters have been set at 150 degrees, a temperature that can cause severe burns inthirty seconds or less.

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Products

1 Install an anti-scald mechanism on thepipes under the bathroom and kitchensinks. The mechanism automaticallymixes hot and cold water to a pre-set,non-scalding temperature. ($48 - $100)Suppliers: ANT, SPK

2 Install an anti-scald safety valve on allshower heads and faucets to protectagainst hot water scalding. These valvesinstantly react to scalding hot water byreducing the spray to a trickle. Orinstall a shower head and showerstopper that automatically shuts offwhen water becomes too hot. ($40 - $100) Suppliers: ANT, SPK

3 Replace pot holders with heat resist-ant, firm, comfortable grips that slipover the handles of saucepans and skillets. ($6 to $7) Suppliers: HEA,MAX

4 Reduce the potential for burns with anelbow length, flame retardant ovenmitt or a special heat resistant glovethat protects hands when removingitems from a hot oven, changing lightbulbs, or placing logs on the fire. ($3 - $24) Suppliers: CHF, HEA, HMT,ILA, LSS, MAX, QVC, SAM, SOL

5 Use a notched wooden or curvedmetal stick to push or pull hot ovenracks or dishes within the oven. ($3 - $13) Suppliers: MAX, LSS, SAM

6 Snap a cool-touch oven guard onto thefront edge of an oven rack to protectyour arms from contact with the rackwhen reaching into a hot oven. Theoven guard remains on the oven rackbetween uses. ($20 - $24/set of 2)Suppliers: ILA, LSS, MAX, SPL, TAY

7 Prevent hot grease or bubbling waterfrom splattering onto arms or stovetop by covering pans with splatterscreens. ($4 - $20) Suppliers: CHF, LIL,MAX, MKC

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8 Microwave your food in a “cooltouch” bowl that remains cool duringcooking and prevents burns to yourfingers. The unique handle allows youto hold the bowl with only one handand a special lid prevents spatters. ($7 - $15) Suppliers: AMZ,MAX, TAY

9 Use a portable induction cooktop forsafer cooking. Because it heats onlywhen a pan sits on the cookingsurface, and stops delivering heatseconds after the pan is removed, it issafe to the touch and energy efficient.Some models include an automaticshut-off feature, touch controls, digitaltimers, and can be built into thekitchen counter. ($100 - $300)Suppliers: AMZ, BBB, CHF, ILA

10 Hang a fire extinguisher or “flame-stop” spray in the kitchen to use onsmall fires. A third of all home firesstart in the kitchen. ($10 - $180)Suppliers: FIR, HMT, HOM, LOW,MFA, MIL, ZEE

11 For added protection in case of a fire,use fire retardant foams and fabricson upholstered furniture. Look forfire retardant window treatments anddrapery sheers. Supplier: COR.

12 Have available a fire resistant blanketthat extinguishes flames when thrownon small fires, including stovetop,toaster or oven fires. ($41 - $245)Suppliers: JLI, MFA, ZEE

13 To enhance fire safety in the bedroom,cover your mattress with a fire retardant mattress cover. ($10 - $16)Suppliers: AMZ, BBB, MAX Buy a mattress with fire retardantfoam. ($180 - $730) Suppliers: DMS,SER Use a fire retardant wool blanketon the bed. ($20) Suppliers: BBB, JCP,MFA, QVC, ZEE

14 Use fire resistant wastebaskets. ($18 - $330) Suppliers: CHF, MIL,OFF

15 Install smoke detectors throughoutyour home, particularly in or nearyour bedroom. Most home fire fatali-ties occur between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00a.m. when people are most likely to beasleep. Some smoke detectors includespecial features as automatic flash-lights, "talking" messages, flashingstrobe lights, or vibration for the visu-ally- or hearing-impaired. ($8 - $190)Suppliers: CMP, FIR, HIT, HOM, HSS,ILA, LOW, MAX, MIL, QVC, SPL

16 Mark the location of bedrooms ofchildren, older adults or physicallychallenged individuals with highlyvisible decals that alert firefighters toclear marked area first. ($3 - $4 fortwo) Supplier: PER

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17 Plan for an expedient escape from thesecond or third story of your home inthe event of a fire; purchase a foldingescape ladder that hooks over thewindow sill. ($40 - $215) Suppliers:BLD, BRK, HOM, IMP, LOW, PER,SPL

18 Make sure your iron, toaster oven,coffee pot or other heat-producingappliance includes an automatic shut-off feature. (Iron $20 - $90) Suppliers: B&D, MAX, QVC (Toaster Oven $40 - $200) Suppliers: B&D, QVC (Coffee Pot $23 - $235) Suppliers: B&D, CHF, QVC

19 Plug TVs, computers, microwaveovens or other appliances into surgeprotectors to prevent electrical fires inthe event of a power surge. ($6 - $120)Suppliers: HOM, LOW, MAX, MIL,OFF, QVC, RAD, SPL

20 Use a fire retardant ironing boardcover. ($22 - $27) Suppliers: BBB,HMT, QVC, TAR

21 Battery-powered flameless candleseliminate the risk of accidental candlefires. ($6 - $60 per set) Suppliers: BBB,QVC, SOL, TAY

22 Use a portable or travel smoke alarmwhen it’s not easy to install othertypes of smoke detectors or whentraveling. Some products include aflashing light as well as an audiblealarm to alert those with visual andhearing impairments of a potentialfire. Some include a travel securityalarm. ($75 - $166) Suppliers: AMZ,GIS, WTG

More Simple Solutions

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The following ideas and products are just afew more ways to help create a home thatcan be safer and more comfortable andlivable for everyone.

Products

1 Protect yourself with a plug-in orhardwired carbon monoxide detector/alarm that does not requirebatteries. Some include a gas alarm,battery back-up, strobe lights and“talking” voice alert features. ($20 - $220) Suppliers: FIR, HOM,LOW, MAX, MIL, SPL

2 Install lighted switch plates that glowin the dark and are easy to see in adark room. ($2) Suppliers: AMZ,MAX

3 Be ready for a power outage; have anemergency flashlight that is rechargedby winding a hand crank for about aminute to provide 30 to 60 minutes oflight. Some also feature radios andcell phone chargers. ($11 - $40)Suppliers: BRK, MAX, TAY

4 Stay safe during an extended poweroutage; use a portable emergencylantern with krypton or LED bulbsthat are brighter and last longer thanstandard bulbs, offering 20 to 40hours of illumination. ($9 - $40)Suppliers: AMZ, MKC, ORV, TAY,WDS

5 Fit the bathroom spigot with a flexible sink hose that screws on andoff easily for washing hair and otherpersonal grooming. ($9 - $25) Suppliers: HMT, HOM, LOW

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6 Use a handy, seven-day pill reminderbox to organize medications for anentire week. ($1 - $25) Suppliers: DYL,ILA, LSS, MAX, MKC, TAY, WDS

7 Divide pills in half easily and safely.Use a pill splitter that cuts the pillinside of a plastic case when pressureis applied to the top of the case. Somemodels also crush pills, open contain-ers, pop pills out of foil packets, orcome with pill bottle openers. ($6 - $13) Suppliers: HMT, ILA, LSS,MAX, MKC, SAM

8 Do not leave knives loose in adrawer. Protect yourself from poten-tial cuts by using knife guards. ($3 - $8 set of knife/guard) Suppliers:CAM, JCP, QVC

9 If you have a shortage of electricaloutlets in the kitchen, buy a UL listedoutlet extender with surge protectoror circuit breaker, and install under anoverhead cabinet (out of sight) or onthe wall. ($10 - $55) Suppliers: HMT,HOM, LOW, MIL, QVC, RAD

10 Boil water with greater speed andsafety by using an electric tea kettle,which whistles and shuts off automat-ically when the water has boiled. ($20 - $160) Suppliers: B&D, CHF,HMT, QVC, VER

11 Use a cordless portable heater withautomatic shut-off that plugs directlyinto an electrical outlet. It will not tipover and there is no cord to become atripping hazard. ($65 - $70) Suppliers: HMT, SPL

12 Transport groceries, laundry, and otherheavy items in a folding shoppingcart. Some models can double as awalker. ($18 - $75) Suppliers: DRL,DYL, HMT, MKC, SAM, TAY, VER,WAL, WDS, WMT

13 Carry plastic shopping bags, milk jugs,and other containers more easily witha bag tote. The ergonomic handlewith a hook slips over the bag handlesand allows an individual to carryheavy and bulky items. ($4 - $18) Suppliers: DYL, SAM

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14 A rolling laundry basket will elimi-nate the need to bend and lift a heavybasket of clothing. Some also feature arack for hanging clothes. ($19 - $75)Suppliers: AMZ, MKC, WDS

15 Make lawn chores easier by using agarden kneeler/sitter. The foampadding provides comfort and thesturdy locking steel frame handlesassist the user in standing or kneeling.Some fold up for easy storage, whileothers have wheels for ease of move-ment. ($33 - $90) Suppliers: HMT,IMP, PLO, SAM, TAY, WDS

16 Minimize bending and lifting associ-ated with raking and yard work byusing a lawn bag holder. Simply placea standard bag into this frame forgreater convenience. ($8 - $32)Suppliers: AMZ, MKC

17 Rakes with ergonomic handles andwhich “grab” and lift the leaves fromthe ground to deposit into the bagenable the user to work withoutbending. ($26 - $50) Suppliers: QVC,HMT, WMT

18 See a larger, clearer, brighter image ofpersons outside your door with apeephole that magnifies the viewoutside the door on a 3” digitalscreen. ($130) Suppliers: HAM, SOL.Video intercoms enable you to talkwith visitors while viewing themoutside your door. ($200 - $394)Supplier: SMT

19 Be alerted to the delivery of mail toyour mailbox by using a mailboxchime that “beeps” and flashes a lightto signal the mail’s arrival. ($45 - $55)Suppliers: AMZ, MAX, SPL

20 Hang a portable security alarm oninterior knobs of exterior doors, orinsert a similar device between thedoor and frame. This will warnagainst intruders with a loud alarmwhen pressure is placed on the doorhandle, and is ideal for travel. ($10 - $17) Suppliers: SPL, TAY

21 Install a portable security intercom atyour door or driveway; this will allowyou to identify visitors from anywhereinside the house. ($13 - $505)Suppliers: DRL, HAM, HMT, HSS,MAX, RAD, SOL, TAY

39


22 Prevent potential intruders fromentering doors and windows with aportable door/window security device;some sound a pulsating alarm whentampered with. ($11 - $50) Suppliers:HSS, MAX

23 Make a forced entry impossible, athome or while traveling, by using adevice that fits between the floor anddoorknob. When placed horizontally,the bar makes sliding glass doorsimmovable. Some include an alarmthat sounds when entry is attempted.A wedge-shaped device is also avail-able for doors. ($5 - $30) Suppliers:DRL, HAR, HMT, HOM, IMP, KMA,LOW, MAX, MKC, SPL, TAY, VER,WDS

24 Summon assistance from peoplewithin your home easily, quickly, andwithout shouting by using a personalpager that is portable and requires nowiring. ($20 - $80) Suppliers: DYL,ILA, MAX, SAM, SOL, SPL

25 Purchase or rent a personal emer-gency response system for addedpeace of mind. These systems allowindividuals to live independently intheir homes while having access toassistance 24 hours a day. Someoneneeding assistance touches a wirelessremote call button that activates thesystem to dial a family member,neighbor, or emergency personnel.Purchased units will dial telephonenumbers of your choice. Subscriberservices will automatically send asignal to an emergency responsecenter in case of an accident or otheremergency. Suppliers: ADT, DYL, ILA,LIF, MAX

Supplier Guide

40

ABLAbleware661 Route 23 SouthWayne, NJ 07470973-628-7600973-305-0841 FAXwww.ableware.com

ACEAce Hardware 2200 Kensington CourtOakbrook, IL 60523-2100 866-290-5334 OR 630-990-6600www.acehardware.comCheck website for retail storelocations

ADTADT Home Health SecurityServices32100 US Highway 19 North Palm Harbor, FL 34684877-238-3880www.adt.com/homehealth

ALSAlsons Corporation3010 West Mechanic StreetPO Box 282Hillsdale, MI 49242800-421-0001, option #1517-439-9644 FAXwww.alsons.comCheck website for local supplier

ANTAntiscald, Inc. 70-40 137th StreetFlushing, NY 11367718-263-7126718-263-1259 FAXwww.antiscald.comOnline purchase only

AMZAmazon.comP.O. Box 81226Seattle, WA 98108-1226866-216-1072 OR 206-266-2992www.amazon.comOnline purchase only

ARMArmstrong World Industries,Inc.P.O. Box 3001Lancaster, PA 17604800-233-3823717-396-4270 FAXwww.armstrongfloors.com ORwww.armstrong.com Check website for retail storelocations

AUBAubuchon Hardware95 Aubuchon DriveWestminster, MA 01473800-431-2712 or 978-874-0521978-874-6692 FAXwww.aubuchonhardware.comOR www.hardwarestore.comOnline purchase only

B&DBlack & Decker701 E Joppa Rd.Towson, MD 21280-5502800-743-8625www.blackanddeckerappliances.comCheck website for retail storelocations

BATBathEase, Inc.3815 Darston StreetPalm Harbor, FL 34685888-747-7845813-786-2604 FAXwww.bathease.com

BBBBed, Bath and Beyond650 Liberty AvenueUnion, NJ 07083800-462-3966973-785-4255 FAXwww.bedbathandbeyond.comCheck website for retail storelocations

BENBeneke1 Tuffy LaneColumbus, MS 39701800-647-1042 (ask for BenekeCustomer Service)www.sppi.com/catalog.php?id=141

BLDBold Industries PO Box 2193Westport, CT 06880800-736-4022www.boldindustries.com ORwww.resqladder.comOnline purchase only

41

Supplier Guide

BRKBrookstone, Inc. One Innovation WayMerrimack, NH 03054800-926-7000 OR 800-846-3000573-581-7361 FAXwww.brookstone.comCheck website for retail storelocations

CHFChef’s Catalog5070 Centennial BoulevardColorado Springs, CO 80919800-338-3232800-967-2433 FAXwww.chefscatalog.com

CMPCamping WorldPO Box 90017Bowling Green, KY 42102-9017888-626-3636 OR 800-416-7757 800-334-3359 FAXwww.campingworld.com

CONContainer Store500 Freeport ParkwayCoppell, TX 75019888-266-8246972-538-7626 FAXwww.containerstore.comCheck website for retail storelocations

CORCoral of Chicago102 Madison Ave., 6th FloorNew York, NY 10016301-535-3694www.csamelson.comCall Ailene Werner forinformation

DMSDevine Medical Supplies9950 Bell Ranch Dr., Suite 101Santa Fe Spring, CA 90670562-944-5640562-944-5680 FAXwww.devinemedical.comOnline purchase only

DRLDr. Leonard’s Health CareCatalog100 Nixon LaneP.O. Box 7823Edison, NJ 08818-7823800-785-0880732- 572-2118 FAXwww.drleonards.com

DYLDynamic Living 95 West Dudleytown RoadBloomfield, CT 06002888-940-0605860-243-1910 FAXwww.dynamic-living.comOnline purchase only

ELIElights.com 119 Rockland Center #305Nanuet, NY 10954-2964888-844-3332888-844-3335 FAXwww.elights.comOnline purchase only

EPLe-pill, LLC49 Walnut Street, Building 4Wellesley, MA 02481-2175800-549-0095 OR 781-239-2941781-235-3252 FAXwww.epill.comOnline purchase only

FIRFirst Alert 407 N. Quentin RoadPalatine, IL 60067-4832847-991-4385 OR 800-323-9005847-991-7189 FAXwww.firstalertstore.comCheck website for retail storelocations

FORForbo FlooringHumboldt Industrial ParkPO Box 667Hazelton, PA 18201570-459-0771570-450-0258 FAXwww.forboflooringna.comCheck website for local supplier

42

Supplier Guide

GTOGet Organized600 Cedar Hollow RoadPaoli, PA 19301800-829-1133 OR 610-725-1100www.shopgetorganized.com

HAMHammacher Schlemmer9180 Le Saint DriveFairfield, OH 45014800-543-3366 OR 800-321-1484800-440-4020 FAXwww.hammacher.com

HANHancock Fabrics1 Fashion WayBaldwyn, MS 38824877-322-7427www.hancockfabrics.comCheck website for retail storelocations

HARHarriet Carter425 Stump RoadNorth Wales, PA 19455800-377-7878www.harrietcarter.com ORwww.harrietcartergifts.com

HITHITEC (also known asClearsounds)1743 Quincy Ave, Suite 155Naperville, IL 60540800-288-8303 OR 800-536-8890 TTY888-654-9219 FAXwww.hitec.com ORwww.clearsounds.com

HMTHome TrendsPO Box 20403Rochester, NY 14602-0403888-815-0814 OR 800-810-2340585- 889-8686 FAXwww.hometrendscatalog.com

HOMThe Home Depot2455 Paces Ferry Rd, NWAtlanta, GA 30339-4024800-553-3199www.homedepot.comCheck website for retail storelocations

HONHoneywell International, Inc.1985 Douglas Drive NorthGolden Valley, MN 55422800-468-1502www.honeywellstore.comCheck website for retail storelocations

HSSHome Security Store 1760 Chicago Avenue, Ste L21Riverside, CA 92507888-501-7870 OR 951-782-8494951-782-8499 FAXwww.homesecuritystore.comOnline purchase only

ILAIndependent Living Aids, Inc. P.O. Box 9022Hicksville, NY 11802-9022800-537-2118516-937-3906 FAXwww.independentliving.com

IMPImprovements5568 West Chester RoadWest Chester, OH 45069-2914800-643-9484800-757-9997 FAXwww.improvementscatalog.com

JCPJ.C. Penney 6501 Legacy DrivePlano, TX 75024800-222-6161www.jcpenney.comCheck website for retail storelocations

JESJES Lighting5605 West HemlockMilwaukee, WI 53223414-760-3377414-760-3380 FAXwww.jeslighting.com

JLIJL Industries Incorporated4450 W. 78th Street Circle Bloomington, MN 55435800-554-6077952-835-2218 FAXwww.jlindustries.comOnline purchase only

KCLKichler Lighting7711 E. Pleasant Valley RoadCleveland, OH 44131-8010866-558-5706www.kichler.comCheck website for localsupplier

43

Supplier Guide

KMAKmart3333 Beverly RdHoffman Estates, IL 60179866-562-7848www.kmart.comCheck website for retail storelocations

KOHKohler Company 444 Highland DriveKohler, WI 53044800-456-4537www.kohler.comCheck website for retail storelocations

LIFPhilips Lifeline111 Lawrence StreetFramingham, MA 01702-8156800-543-3546800-448-0107 FAXwww.lifelinesys.com

LILLillian Vernon Corporation 100 Lillian Vernon DriveVirginia Beach, VA 23479-0002800-901-9291www.lillianvernon.com

LMPLamps Plus 20250 Plummer StreetChatsworth, CA 91311800-782-1967www.lampsplus.comCheck website for retail storelocations

LOWLowe’s Home ImprovementWarehouse StorePO Box 1111North Wilkesboro, NC 28656800-445-6937www.lowes.comCheck website for retail storelocations

LSSLS&S Group, Inc.145 River Rock DriveBuffalo, NY 14207800-468-4789877-498-1482FAXwww.lssproducts.com

MAXMaxi Aids42 Executive Blvd.Farmingdale, NY 11735800-522-6294631-752-0689 FAXwww.maxiaids.com

MFAMasune First Aid & Safety500 Fillmore AvenueTonawanda, NY 14150800-831-0894800-222-1934 FAXwww.masune.com

MILMiller’s Office ProductsPO Box 1335 Newington, VA 22122800-451-3370800-451-3385 FAXwww.millersop.com

MONMontgomery WardOrder Processing DepartmentPO Box 8994Madison, WI 53794-0404888-557-3848800-814-1650 FAXwww.wards.com

MKCMiles Kimball Company250 City CenterOshkosh, WI 54906800-546-2255800-699-6993 FAXwww.mileskimball.com

MMM3-M CompanyProduct Information Dept.St. Paul, MN 55144-1000888-364-3577800-713-6329 FAXwww.3m.com ORwww.mmm.comCheck website for localsupplier

NATNature’s Tapestry1236 D StreetSalida, CO 81201877-647-4719www.naturestapestry.comOnline purchase only

44

Supplier Guide

NEW Newcastle Fabrics Corp.140 – 58th Street, Box 112,Suite 9 WestBrooklyn, NY 11220718-782-5560718-782-7367 FAXwww.newcastlefabrics.comAvailable through a localwindow treatment fabricator

NSPNo Skidding Products, Inc. 266 Wildcat RoadToronto, Ontario M3J2N5 Canada800-375-0571800-656-6153 FAXwww.noskidding.com

OFFOffice Depot6600 N. Military TrailBoca Raton, FL 33496-2434800- 463-3768800-685-5010 FAXwww.officedepot.comCheck website for retail storelocations

ORVThe Orvis Company1711 Blue Hills DriveRoanoke, VA 24012-8613888-235-9763540-343-7053 FAXwww.orvis.comCheck website for retail storelocations

OXOOXOOXO Consumer Care Center1331 South Seventh Street,Second FloorChambersburg, PA 17201800-545-4411717-709-5350 FAXwww.oxo.comCheck website for retail storelocations

PAMThe Pampered Chef 1 Pampered Chef LaneAddison, IL 60101800-266-5562www.pamperedchef.comCall or check website for localsupplier

PERPerfectly Safe7090 Whipple AvenueNorth Canton, OH 44720800- 898-3696, #2330- 244-9518 FAXwww.kidsstuff.com ORwww.perfectlysafe.comOnline purchase only

PLOPlow & HearthP.O. Box 6000Madison, VA 22727-16500800- 494-7544800-843-2509 FAXwww.plowhearth.com

PROProgress Lighting701 Millennium BlvdGreenville, SC 29607800-453-2138800-889-0729 FAXwww.progresslighting.comCheck website for local supplieror retail store

QVCQVC1200 Wilson Drive at StudioParkWest Chester, PA 19380800-367-9444 OR 888-345-5788www.qvc.com Online purchase only

RADRadio ShackRiverfront Campus, Mail Stop#CF3-311300 RadioShack CircleFort Worth, TX 76102-1964800-843-7422www.radioshack.comCheck website for retail storelocations

RSSReadySetSports.com (servicedby QVC)1200 Wilson Drive at StudioParkWest Chester, PA 19380800-367-9444 OR 888-345-5788www.readysetsports.comOnline purchase only

45

Supplier Guide

S&SS&S Worldwide PrimelifeP.O. Box 51375 Mill StreetColchester, CT 06415-0513800- 288-9941800-566-6678 FAXwww.ssww.com

SAMSammons PrestonEnrichments, Inc.270 Remington BoulevardP.O. Box 5071Bolingbrook, IL 60440-5071800-323-5547800-547-4333 FAXwww.sammonspreston.comORwww.pattersonmedical.com

SERSerta, Inc.3 Golf Center #392Hoffman Estates, IL 60169888-557-3782630-285-9330 FAXwww.serta.comCheck website for retail storelocations

SMTSmarthome, Inc.16542 Millikan AvenueIrvine, CA 92606-5027800-762-7846800-242-7329 FAXwww.smarthome.com

SOLSolutionsPO Box 127Jessup, PA 18434800-342-9988 OR 877-718-7901800-821-1282 FAXwww.solutionscatalog.com ORwww.solutions.com

SPKSpeakmanP.O. Box 191Wilmington, DE 19899-0191800-537-2107800-977-2747 FAXwww.speakmancompany.com

SPLSporty’s Preferred LivingCatalogClermont County/Sporty’sAirport2001 Sporty’s Dr.Batavia, OH 45103-9747800-776-7897800-543-8633 FAXwww.preferredliving.com ORhttp://sportys.com/preferredliving/

STAStacks & Stacks Homewares1045 Hensley StreetRichmond, CA 94801800-761-5222510-215-5993 FAXwww.stacksandstacks.comOnline purchase only

SWFSprings Window Fashions8467 Route 405 HighwayPO Box 500Montgomery, PA 17752877-792-0002www.springswindowfashions.com OR www.baliblinds.comCheck website for local supplier

SWMSherwin Williams101 West Prospect AvenueCleveland, OH 44115800-474-3794 216-566-2947 FAXwww.sherwin-williams.comCheck website for retail storelocations

TARTarget1000 Nicollet MallMinneapolis, MN 55403800.591.3869 OR 800-440-0680612-696-5400 FAXwww.target.comCheck website for retail storelocations

TAYTaylor Gifts600 Cedar Hollow RoadPaoli, PA 19301800-829-1133 OR 610-725-1100610-725-1144 FAXwww.taylorgifts.com

46

Supplier Guide

TWSThe Wright Stuff, Inc.111 Harris StreetCrystal Springs, MS 39059877-750-0376 OR 601-892-3115601-892-3116 FAXwww.wrightstuff.biz

VERThe Vermont Country StoreP.O. Box 6999Rutland, VT 05702802-776-5730 OR 802-776-5731802-362-0285 FAXwww.vermontcountrystore.com

WALAARP Health EssentialsCatalog from Walgreens (formerly AARP PharmacyServices)PO Box 1046Deerfield, IL 60015866-202-4020http://aarp.walgreens.com/healthessentials/default.jsp

WDSWalter Drake & SonsP.O. Box 3680Oshkosh, WI 54903-3680800-525-9291888-252-8462 FAXwww.wdrake.com

WILWilton Industries – COPCO2240 W. 75th StreetWoodridge, IL 60517800-794-5866888-824-9520 FAXwww.wilton.com ORwww.copco.comCheck website for retail storelocations

WMT Walmart702 SW 8th StreetBentonville, Arkansas 72716800-925-6278479-277-1830 FAXwww.walmart.comCheck website for storelocations

WTGWalkabout Travel Gear444 Moore LaneHealdsburg, CA 95448-4815800-852-7085888-722-0567 FAXwww.walkabouttravelgear.comOnline purchase only

ZEEZee Medical, Inc.22 Corporate ParkIrvine, CA 92606888-225-5933562-695-2761www.zeemedical.com

47

Home ChecklistMake Your House a Home for a Lifetime

Use this handy, room-by-room checklist to assess the comfort, convenience, safety, and security of your home. Each time you answer no to a question, you have identified an opportunity for improvement. By using some of the ideas presented throughout this guidebook, you can make your house a home for a lifetime.

THROUGHOUT THE HOUSE YES NO

Are smoke detectors installed on each floor of the home, including one near the sleeping area?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Do you replace smoke detector batteries at least once a year? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Do wall coverings and flooring materials meet the most stringent fire safety standards (fire rated Class A or Class I)? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are furnishings and draperies made with fire retardant materials?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is there a sufficient and evenly distributed level of lighting throughout the house and at exterior doors and walkways? Has additional lighting been installed where safety hazards exist? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is your home’s hot water adjusted to a safe temperature (110-120 degrees)? . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are paths through rooms well lighted and free of obstructions?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is your home free of thresholds that may trip or hinder movement? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is your home free of scatter rugs? Or, as an alternative, have you secured area rugs and doormats with double-sided carpet tape or self-stick carpet mesh? . . . . . . . O O

Have you considered replacing round doorknobs with lever handles? Or, as an alternative, purchase lever adapters to clamp onto round doorknobs. . . . . . . . . O O

Have you installed a portable security intercom that will allow you to identify visitors from anywhere inside the house? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are emergency numbers posted at every telephone? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you considered having a personal emergency response system (PERS) connected to the telephone for added peace of mind? (The system comes with a portable button that is worn or that can be affixed to the wall within the bathroom, at bedside, and in the kitchen where more emergencies tend to take place.) . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

48

KITCHEN YES NO

Is good lighting available over the stove, counters, sink and other areas in which food preparation and other tasks take place?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are major appliances designed to reduce bending and reaching, i.e., wall oven and side-by-side refrigerator?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are stove/oven controls easy to reach, grasp and turn? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are they located at the front edge of the appliance? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is there high color contrast between the text of the controls and the background color of the range, washer/dryer, and other appliances? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is the size of the text easy to read? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is the counter at a comfortable working height? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is there a lower section of the counter at table height with a chair, or a work area which allows you to work while seated? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you equipped your kitchen with safety items such as a fire extinguisher and small appliances with an automatic shut-off feature? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you installed an anti-scald mechanism on the pipe under the kitchen sink that automatically mixes hot and cold water to a pre-set, non-scalding temperature? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you equipped your kitchen with convenience gadgets such as jar and bottle opener, flexible sink hose, a long handled reacher to take light-weight items down from upper shelves, etc.? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are storage shelves/cabinets within easy reach?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is cabinet hardware easy to grasp? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you considered installing lever-type faucet handles in the kitchen sink? . . . . . . . . . O O(Or, as an alternative, you can purchase a gripper tap turner to convert standard handles and controls on appliances and other equipment into lever-type ones.)

49

BATHROOM YES NO

Is there bright, non-glare producing lighting at the vanity counter, tub and shower?. . . . O O

Is the bathtub or shower easy to get into and out of?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you placed non-slip vinyl mats in bathtubs and showers to help guard against falls? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are there well-secured grab bars installed in the shower or tub?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is there a tub/shower seat in the bathing area? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you installed an anti-scald safety valve on shower heads and faucets to protect against hot water scalding? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Do the counter tops have rounded, rather than sharp, corners to reduce the potential for injury? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

BEDROOM YES NO

Are the mattress, pillows, and bedding made with fire retardant materials? . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is there a clear and well-lighted pathway from the bed to the bathroom? . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Do you have a light or flashlight within easy reach of the bed?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is there a telephone within easy reach of the bed? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Have you considered outfitting closets with easy-to-reach dual-height hanging clothes bars and shelves?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

STAIRWAYS YES NO

Are stairways uncarpeted and have the edges been marked with textured tape or rubber treads to reduce slipping? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Is the leading edge of the steps marked with a contrasting color tape to clearly delineate this potential safety hazard? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are stairways well lighted so that each step, particularly the edges, can be clearly seen while going up and down? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Do stairways have two sturdy, easy-to-grip hand rails that run continuously from the top and extend beyond the edges of the first and last stairs? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

Are stairways free of clutter? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . O O

50

It Could Happen to Me:Family Conversations about Disaster PlanningThis guidebook providesinformation on helpingyour family prepare for– and more safely andconfidently deal with –natural disasters.

The Calm Before the Storm: FamilyConversations about Disaster Planning,Care giving,Alzheimer’s Diseaseand DementiaThis guidebook provides information to help caregivers ofloved ones with

Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia better plan for natural disasters and catastrophes.

1

ItCould Happen toMeFamily Conversations about Disaster Planning

THE CALM BEFORE THE STORMFamily Conversations about Disaster Planning, Caregiving, Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia

Simple Solutions:Practical Ideas and Products to Enhance Independent LivingThis guidebook features more than 200 simple design ideas and household

products that can make your home more comfortable, convenient and safe.

Modern Ideas, Modern Living: Taking the NextStep in Home Design and Planning for the Lifestyle You WantThis guidebook encourages you tothink about the next

step in your lifestyle and how to ensure that yourhome will fit you, and provides information andideas to help you think through the options andtalk with people who are important to you aboutthese decisions.

Fire SenseThis guidebook provides informationon preventing, detect-ing and escaping a fire in your home.

Order These GuidebooksTo order FREE copies of these guidebooks, visit us on the Web at: www.thehartford.com/lifetime.

If you do not have access to the Internet, you canorder any of these guidebooks by writing to:

The Hartford Publications Request200 Hopmeadow StreetSimsbury, CT 06089

Please be sure to indicate the title(s) and quantity of the guidebooks you are ordering.


SIMPLE SOLUTIONS:Practical Ideas and Products to Enhance Independent Living

MODERN IDEAS,MODERN LIVING:Taking the Next Step in Home Design and Planning for the Lifestyle You Want


FireSense®

A Smart Way to Prevent, Detect and Escape Home Fires

Resources from The Hartford

51

The Hartford Advance 50 TeamThe Hartford is one of the few companiesin the United States with in-house expertson aging. For over 25 years, The Hartfordhas employed gerontologists to advance the creation and delivery of research, educational materials and innovative business solutions to enhance the qualityof life for the 50+ market.

Other Valuable Resources for MakingYour House a Home for a Lifetime

AARPVisit www.aarp.org/housingresources and search for these phrases:

• Home improvement• Universal design• Aging in place

Alzheimer’s AssociationVisit www.alz.org and search for this phrase:

• Safety at home

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB)Visit www.nahb.org and search for these phrases:

• Home remodeling• Learn about aging in place• Universal design

National Kitchen and Bath AssociationVisit www.nkba.org and search for this word:

• Remodel

National Resource Center for Supportive Housing and Home Modifications (University of Southern California)Visit www.homemods.org and click on “Frequently Asked Questions” on topics such as:

• Home modifications• Universal design• Finding architects and contractors

Simple Solutions: Practical Ideas and Products to Enhance Independent Livingwas created by The Hartford Advance 50Team in collaboration with Joan A. Pease,principal, and her colleagues at Partners inPlanning, Alexandria, Virginia, nationallyrecognized designers and planners of seniorliving environments.

52

Additional Notes:

105983 Rev. Printed in U.S.A. © June 2011 The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., Hartford, CT 06155 All Rights Reserved

This guide is intended to help individuals who seek information

about the kinds of changes that can be made to a home

environment to increase comfort, convenience and safety.

It is not intended to be an exhaustive source or to relate to a

particular housing situation. Readers are advised to consult

the appropriate professionals to assist them in analyzing their

situation and to refer to the sources identified in the section

entitled “Resources” for additional information. All information

and representations herein are made as of June 2011.

simple solutions - car insurance & auto insurance quotes online

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