I recently fractured my ankle on both sides. I was able to avoid surgery by not putting any weight on it for six weeks but getting around the house proved to be a bit challenging. I was not very good, nor did I feel very stable, using crutches so I opted for a transport chair some friends were kind enough to loan us. Luckily I am only dealing with this for a few weeks but it made me wonder about myself aging and the aging population in general and how to best accommodate being able to live independently in our own homes. As I did some research on it I found a good article from South Dakota State University Extension that addresses retrofitting our homes for lifelong independence. They have included a chart comparing costs of Nursing Homes and Assisted Living facilities versus retrofitting and staying in your own home. I think the information is timely and worth considering as I look down the road at not only staying in my own home but for other family members as well.
ajosking2@gmail.com