changing the environment: responding to changes in aging
CONTENTS

introduction

changes in aging

health conditions

functional independence

modify environment

preventing falls

ot and pt in environmental design

definitions and citations



Light switch at entry to each room

This is another strategy for ensuring adequate light. In some older homes, it may be difficult to re-wire for this purpose. Adding a "clap on" light to frequently used rooms can be an inexpensive way to allow an older adult to turn on a light each time he/she enters a room.

With regard to lighting, it may be necessary to provide adequate instruction about its importance. The current generation of older adults were raised during the depression and many of them are very cautious about spending. Such individuals may resist using lights because they worry about higher energy bills. For some of them, understanding that by using good lighting they may avoid the even greater expenses associated with injuries from a fall may be a convincing argument.

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