Fixing to Stay: A National Survey on Housing and Home Modification Issues
By Bayer, Ada-Helen; Harper, Leon; AARP (American Association of Retired Persons)(Pages: 82) Publication Date: May 2000
Study undertaken to identify emerging housing changes and trends among Americans age 45 and over. The study was based on telephone interviews conducted in 1999 with 2,000 participants. The survey found that more than 80 percent of respondents wanted to stay in their current home as long as possible, even if they should need help caring for themselves. Of those able to make home modifications, 70 percent had made at least one such change to make their homes more accessible, and nearly 90 percent had made simpler changes. Modifications made most frequently included installing light switches in stairwells, and adding handrails or grab bars in the bathroom or on both sides of steps or stairs. Nightlights, non-skid bathtub strips, and higher-wattage light bulbs were the simple changes made most often. Of those making modifications or changes to their homes, 67 percent believed doing so would allow them to live there longer. Not being able to do it themselves, or not being able to afford it, were cited most often as reasons why respondents had not made home modifications. Two-thirds of respondents supported their states passing legislation requiring that more homes be built with features that will allow people to remain in their own home as they age.
Published by: AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) (Website:http://www.aarp.org)
Link to text: http://www.aarp.org/research/housing-mobility/accessibility/aresearch-import-783.html
