ABSTRACT
Most elders resist the idea of renovating their house to make it more comfortable as they age—especially those who are completely mobile and in good health. In 1990, elders age 65 and older numbered 31.6 million—12.6 percent of the US population, according to the American Association of Retired Persons. While elders may balk at installing items that clearly indicate special needs due to aging, many of the changes are simply a safety issue, said Duncan of the Adaptive Environment Center. Replacing doorknobs with levers that push down make opening doors easy for children and for elders who may suffer from arthritis, Duncan points out. Most environmental control devices cost less than $200. For those who have trouble recalling phone numbers, try a big button picture phone. Creating a comfortable environment no longer means duplicating a hospital room. Products on the market come in fashionable colors and sleek designs.
