Minimize the risk of accidents, increase living comfort: housing consultant Christine Hodolitsch knows how senior citizens can improve their homes.
Geretsried – According to a survey conducted in 2021, more than half of Geretsrieders over 60 years old are dissatisfied with their living situation.
The reason for this is, among other things, the limited space in the apartments and houses.
At the most recent regulars' table of the VdK local association in the Ratsstuben, the honorary housing consultant of the district office, Christine Hodolitsch, recommended more effective measures that minimize the risk of accidents and increase the comfort of living in your own four walls.
VdK calls for more support for caring relatives
Before the speaker's lecture, which was rich in images, Cornelia Irmer referred to a current nationwide campaign by the social association.
"We call on the federal government to provide more relief and support for caring relatives," said the VdK local chairwoman.
This includes, for example, time off from work to compensate for lost salary, the creation of more support offers such as day, short-term or respite care and the guarantee of a secure pension.
Christine Hodolitsch used practical tips to show that old people or people with restricted mobility can also improve their immediate environment themselves.
"The perfect living situation is barrier-free," she explained.
She mainly addressed her advice to people who are only able to move to a limited extent after an accident or a serious illness.
So that they feel comfortable, the apartment should ideally be accessible without steps and thresholds or with an elevator.
The passage width between the furniture must not be less than 90 centimetres.
"The best maneuvering area is 1.20 by 1.20 meters for walkers, walking aids and crutches."
Eliminate tripping hazards such as thick carpets
Tripping hazards such as thick carpets or loose telephone and extension cords must be eliminated.
Non-slip floors that are easy to drive on – for example made of vinyl – as well as suitable footwear also serve to ensure safety.
Household ladders with a handle are practical, as are sitting and standing aids that relieve the strain on the legs and back.
The bathroom should also be barrier-free.
Health insurance covers certain costs
Unfortunately, a level passage to the shower, high-contrast handles and enough space around the toilet are not part of the standard equipment in all Geretsried senior households.
The health insurance companies cover the costs for a raised toilet seat, a bathtub lift or the shower chair for a floor-level shower.
The only requirement is that the medical aids are prescribed by the doctor and have an aids identification number.
From care level 1, you can apply for a subsidy for a bathroom conversion, a stair lift and permanently installed ramps.
Also read: VdK boss Verena Bentele speaks to the district SPD: care at home must be easier
"If several entitled persons live in one household, the maximum subsidy rate is 16,000 euros," Christine Hodolitsch told the audience.
For many Geretsried residents, applying for this funding would probably make sense: more than a tenth of the Geretsried seniors surveyed have a nursing degree.
Ph
Our Wolfratshausen-Geretsried newsletter keeps you regularly informed about all the important stories from your region.
Sign up here.