When we made presentations at different retirement homes to explain the newly formed Senior Task Force through the City of Naperville, we asked, “What are your most pressing concerns?”
We asked the same when we exhibited at the different senior fairs.
Two problems were overwhelming concerns: transportation and housing. And both are huge problems to solve. We have the transportation program in progress, having applied for all the legal requirements, which take time and money.
Housing is another issue we’ve been investigating. Many seniors are now empty-nesters and would like to sell their home and move into an apartment. We’ve visited new senior apartments designed for independent living. I wonder why all new condos and apartments are not built with senior needs in mind from the start? Everyone is going to age! So why not build from the beginning something residents can stay in with ease and comfort?
Some of the needs are wider hallways, no-step entry into both the building and the shower, non-slip floor in shower with grab bars, lever-style faucets, and touch pads for light switches that are not too high. Many needs would seem to be easy to incorporate right from the beginning of construction.
And consider public bathrooms. I don’t know about the men, but the women have lots of stalls and usually one is designated for handicapped that has a higher toilet seat. Any adult is capable of using the higher seat. Why not make them all higher, and maybe one lower one that says “Children” on the door?
Naperville needs “affordable” rents. Why not have some units developed with smaller square footage and lower affordable prices in addition to larger rental apartments with higher prices for those that can afford it? What’s a realistic rent to call affordable?
We feel honored that developers are asking for our approval by the Senior Task Force. So we are in the process of making out a check list of needs for developers to incorporate into new structures before they can have the approval of the STF. Also, what are the requirements of a developer to advertise “affordable”? We would love your input on this subject. Send your suggestions to: seniortaskforce@naperville.il.us.
Bev’s Chuckle Time: How can you tell if you have joined a cheap HMO? Your doctor is wearing pants you gave to Goodwill.
