Barrier-free living: This is how housing advice helps seniors in the Siegkreis!

Barrier-free living: This is how housing advice helps seniors in the Siegkreis!

86-year-old Edith Münker lives in the beautiful town of Ferndorf and wants to live in her beloved home despite health challenges. After 13 operations on her right leg, she is dependent on a narrow wheelchair and has difficulty climbing the five steps in front of her house. But the Siegen-Wittgenstein housing advice center is there to support her and help her improve her living situation. The consultant Katrin Stein supports her with the application for structural measures to make life easier for the senior citizen and her husband, who suffers from dementia. Two handrails have already been installed along the outside stairs, allowing Münker to get to the car with a walker. This small step has a big meaning for her.

The association's advice is not only valuable for Münker. Many seniors in the region benefit from the individual solutions that are developed together with those affected. Another example are stair lifts, which often provide necessary support for older people. “It’s about promoting self-determined living,” explains Katrin Stein. Your commitment is priceless, and the association offers financial subsidies of up to 4,180 euros per approved measure and person.

Information event on the topic of barrier-free living

In order to bring the topic of “barrier-free living” into greater focus, the housing advisory service organizes regular information events. The next one will take place on August 12th in the Kreuztal City Library. There are tips on “self-determined living and living: barrier-free, practical and safe”. These events are particularly important because the need for modifications is often only addressed after a fall or hospital stay, as Seniorenportal notes.

Despite the challenges that come with limited mobility, housing advice encourages you to think about making adjustments to your own four walls at an early stage. Many conversions can be carried out stress-free and without complications if you get the right advice and plan in good time. The association shows how important professional advice is in order to avoid wrong decisions. It is often assumed that modifications are only necessary when you get older, but this is a misconception.

Stair lifts as the key to more freedom of movement

For those who have several floors in their own home, stair lifts can be a valuable aid. The provider Minova points out that their lifts are quiet and are equipped with a powerful braking system, which offers additional safety. Thanks to the custom-made running rails, each lift is individually adapted to the structural conditions to ensure safety.

A stair lift is not only a practical solution, but also an investment in the quality of life. However, it is important to clarify all necessary permits and structural requirements before installation. In the long term, well-thought-out barrier-free living can help prevent accidents and make everyday life easier. It is a team game in which family members and experts should also be on board to make the best decisions.

The Siegen-Wittgenstein housing advice center can be reached by phone on 0271 31392751, and for Münker and many others in similar situations there is hope for a better quality of life. The key is to be proactive and take advantage of the support that is available. Ultimately, you don't have to wait for a turning point to make your home safe and worth living in.