Oregonians like where they live and mean to stay. With the cost of housing and the shortage of single-level homes, remaining in your own house is usually the practical choice as well as the preferred one. A few well-chosen changes make it possible.
Start outside
Most Oregon homes are reached by steps, and for half the year those steps are wet.
- Fit handrails on both sides
- Keep steps free of moss and leaves
- Add lighting on a sensor
- Where steps are a barrier, add a platform lift or an outdoor stair lift
Then the stairs indoors
- A stair lift is the fastest and most affordable solution for one staircase
- A home elevator serves every level and works with a walker or wheelchair
- A bedroom on the entry level avoids the stairs, if the house allows
The bathroom
- A walk-in or roll-in shower
- Grab bars
- A taller toilet
- Slip-resistant flooring
Everyday comfort
- More light for dark winter days
- Lever handles
- Easy-reach storage
- A dumbwaiter if you carry loads between floors
Be ready for outages and emergencies
- Winter storms cut power. Keep flashlights and know how your lift or elevator behaves.
- Oregon asks residents to be prepared for earthquakes and wildfire smoke. Keep supplies on the level where you spend most time.
Remodeling?
If you are opening walls anyway, add blocking for grab bars, widen a doorway or two and consider framing space for a future elevator.
Find support
The Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon is a free statewide service that links people to local help.
Start with the stairs
Nationwide Lifts of Oregon will assess your stairs and entrances and give you a written quote. Call (503) 545-6586.