The problem is first and foremost the home itself. Second is the individual who resides in it and third is the available funds to address the problem. What have I gotten myself into? Actually interior designers are problem solvers. Who have been trained to enhance the function and quality of interior space for the purpose of improving the quality of life for the resident while maintaining their health, safety and welfare. Tall order...but doable.
THE HOME:
- Built in 1976 for able-bodied individuals
- Slippery kitchen floors
- Narrow door ways
- Sunken living room that requires stepping down into it
- Small guest bathroom
- Extremely small combination water closet and shower area in master bedroom, Bea has taken many falls in this room that has left her injured.
THE INDIVIDUAL:
- Bea, 97 yr old widow living alone
- Insistent on living independently in her home
- Refuses to move into assisted living
- Unable to cook for herself
- Gets around with the assistance of a walker
- Weak upper and lower body strength
- No longer drives
- Unable to keep up with the daily, weekly, monthly household chores due to her physical condition
- Dependent on her daughter and caregiver, Pearl, for most of her everyday needs
- Bea FEARS falling and getting injured
- Bea wants to take a bath, something she has not be able to do since her husband passed
- Bea falls out of bed on a regular base. If you're a single lady and want handsome fire and police men to visit you in the middle of the night...Bea found the secret. Fall out of bed and call 911.
FUNDS:
- Ultimately the driving force of the project
- Due to Bea's age and the family not knowing how long she can continue to live on her own, funds for the project is limited
- Few improvements to the home since 1976, therefore the family is willing to make modest changes
- The budget is set at $12,000.00 max
The goal of this designer is to address first and foremost Bea's fear of falling and getting injured. For Pearl, deliver peace of mind in regards to Bea's safety while she is home alone. I will address the function and aesthetics of the two bathrooms, the slippery kitchen floor, prevent Bea from falling out of bed and her most desired wish to soak in the bath tub.
Thank you so much for the work you do!
ReplyDeleteI can totally see myself using your services one day? I think designing for a lifetime is a *Wonderful idea and concept! I can totally see the value and importance of making it a home for everyone! -Raziel ....