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September is Healthy Aging Month in the United States. While this site normally focuses on the advantages of updating your Long Island home with modern replacement windows and patio doors, this Renewal by Andersen page is all about helping senior family members live more vibrant, independent lives.
#1 Visit a Senior Center. Throughout September, many community senior citizen centers on Long Island host workshops and live events to help seniors prepare for aging in place. Contact your local senior citizens center or regional advocate for a list of local events to learn more.
#2 Attend a Fall Prevention Seminar. Attend at least one fall prevention health fair. At the event, speak to geriatric specialists about home updates that reduce fall incidents. As we age, replacing carpeting with walker-friendly, slip-resistant tile is often a better choice. Installing modern replacement windows that open effortlessly for ventilation and enable easy exit during emergencies can reduce stress and effort as we age. Some people even opt to lower counters and cabinets to enable more easy access from a wheelchair or stool. Reducing excessive reaching for cooking or hygiene supplies can increase independence for aging Long Islanders.
#3 See Your Doctor. Talk to your medical providers about fall prevention screenings. Your medical doctor may recommend gait and balance testing, as well as a consultation with a physical therapist for help developing an exercise program designed specifically to improve older adults’ strength, flexibility and balance.
#4 Make a Financial Plan. Financial planning – which is critical for everyone and especially seniors – includes exploring ways to save money on utility bills, insurance, medical costs, auto expenses and nutritious food. Look for local businesses that offer senior discounts. Many senior advocacy groups make referrals to utility company partners who can help consumers locate a home-energy auditor. A quick call to your insurance carrier(s) may reveal extra discounts you aren’t aware of – and it never hurts to call around and see if a competitor is willing to offer a lower rate. The savings can add up quickly.
#5 Check Your Windows. If your home windows have outlived their usefulness, schedule an in-home consultation with a replacement window specialist. Poorly performing home windows literally drain your wallet by allowing conditioned air to exit your home through cracks and gaps in windows. Sealing these energy wasters can save you a bundle on your utility bills. Also consider changing windows to enable safe egress for seniors in an emergency.
The following links may help you draft a personal plan for successful aging in the Long Island area.
Suffolk County Aging Office: Access nutritional support, seminars on financial planning, exercise advice, health screening information and other resources for seniors and care-givers.
Nassau County Aging Office: Learn about long-term care referrals, nutritional counseling and food support, health and wellness tips, connections to local resources and more.
CDC Long Island: Explore low interest home improvement loans for income-eligible homeowners, veterans and disabled persons. Approved loan applicants may use funds for improving accessibility for aging and disabled family members.
Successfully planning for a safe, secure future starts with understanding how our needs change over time. This month, take time to learn about ways to make your home safer, more energy-efficient and easier to keep clean and well-maintained. Renewal by Andersen of Long Island can help. Just fill in the short form on this page or dial (866) 609-5033 to learn more about replacement window styles that make aging in place easier and safer for the whole family.
Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows