written by Patricia Nunan |  

We have all heard the cliché the kitchen is the heart of the home. This month, why not spend some time in your kitchen taking care of your other heart. Universal Design is often associated with construction or remodeling; however, because of Universal Design there is more opportunity for the kitchen becoming more accommodating with Age in Place features.

For many of you your kitchen has functioned just fine for years, but over time things have a way of just becoming too cluttered or worn out. I recently helped a couple that has lived in an active adult community for more than 10 years. To make their kitchen healthier and safer we made a few simple changes . Most of these you can do yourself, others with simple tools or a handyman.

Try some of these out:

• Clean out old medicines. Often prescription meds, vitamins and over the counter remedies are kept handy in a kitchen cupboard. Go though them and check for expiation dates. Throw out any that are outdated. Get a couple kitchen gadget baskets and label medicines with markers in large letters, separate family members if there is more than one person.

• Instead of using the stovetop for heating water try an electric pot, which automatically shuts off once the water is boiled. This can help prevent potential injuries of teapots left on the stove unwatched.

• Remove all clutter from counter tops and workspaces.

• Get rid of unused dishes, pots with loose handles and worn potholders.

• Replace old potholders with new rubberized, high heat resistant ones

• Small appliances could be moved to a more convenient area. If electrical outlet locations are prohibiting this, have some new outlets installed. All outlets must be hardwired to a GFI to prevent electrical shock.

• Have the drawer and cabinet hardware changed to “U”-shape design or similar accessible hardware that is easier to grasp.

• Install a singe levered faucet with a pull out spray instead of turning knobs.

• Keep a fire extinguisher handy and visibly located near a room exit, but away from cooking equipment. New designer models look great on the counter – near the stove.

• Place microwave ovens conveniently to avoid reaching to retrieve food.

• Install slide-out trays and bins in base cabinets to make storage items more accessible and eliminate the need to bend.

• Get rid of loose scatter rugs and replace them with rubberized floor mats. These are safer and add warmth underfoot.

• Add better lighting. If installing new recessed lights or pendants are out of the budget, install better wattage to see more clearly. New battery operated puck lights are great for adding light under cabinets. It’s easy and affordable to make your kitchen safer and easier to use. Most items needed to de-clutter and organize are found easily where home goods are sold and on-line. You’ll be amazed by how simply keeping your kitchen, the heart of the home, healthy will...

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