Barrier-free living for the elderly

How you can adapt your living environment to your needs

Our society is aging. According to a study by the Bertelsmann Foundation, 6.3 percent of German citizens will be over 80 years old in 2030 – an increase of almost 50 percent. Senior households also have the highest homeownership rate: 59 percent of senior couples over 64 lived in their own property in 2014.

However, senior households are predominantly found in older residential buildings. Many of these buildings are neither fully accessible nor have low barriers, according to a research report by the German Association for Senior Citizens' Welfare.

At the same time, most older people say they want to live independently in their familiar surroundings for as long as possible. However, although every second senior citizen spends at least 20 hours a day at home, the study indicates that approximately 90 percent of homes have numerous obstacles.

Not only in the bathroom, but also in the kitchen, hallway, and bedroom, the maneuvering space is often unsuitable for managing daily life with a wheelchair or walker, according to a report by the German Association for Senior Citizens' Welfare. Passageways and doorways are too narrow, or the furniture is too close together, making it difficult to move around the room effortlessly, even with walking aids or a wheelchair. Age-appropriate measures are particularly necessary in the bathroom to prevent falls and accidents caused by tripping hazards or slippery tiles. For example, the toilet should be raised, and the shower should be at floor level. Grab bars are also helpful at the bathtub and toilet. Wheelchair users need a sink with clearance underneath.

In the kitchen, frequently used appliances such as the refrigerator and oven should be at a comfortable height. A parallel handrail along the worktop ensures a secure footing. To be able to perform longer kitchen tasks while seated, it is best to use a chair that is adjusted to the height of the work surface.

Many modifications can be made without significant financial expenditure. Having switches and handles at an easily accessible height makes life at home easier.

Housing advice centers run by cities and associations often offer free consultations. You can find advisors near you at www.wohnungsanpassung-bag.de .

Owners or tenants can apply for funding for renovations from the KfW (German Development Bank), the long-term care insurance fund, or the local municipality. Tips on loans can be found at www.test.de/modernisierung .