Information from the Caritas housing counseling service Rheine
Rheine.cpr. The statement “Here I would like to remain as long as it goes”, hears Elisabeth Nagelschmidt of the housing consultation of the Caritas Rheine actually always, if it advises older humans at home. But many apartments are not equipped to meet the needs of seniors. “The people, often already live for many years in the houses or apartments. And in the past, the steps or high shower trays were also easy to cope with,” explains the housing consultant at Caritas Rheine. But in the age the forces and the movement ability decrease and then it applies to adapt or rebuild the dwelling to the changed needs. Many older humans shrink from the expenditure. These changes or conversions sometimes naturally bring dirt and excitement with them. But after well-thought-out adaptations or conversions, the experienced housing consultant hears again and again, “Good thing we did that!”
Accessibility is a keyword here, and for older people this essentially means that there are no annoying steps and trip hazards outside and inside the home. In addition, there must also be enough space to get around well with a walker if necessary. Which changes are necessary always depends on the individual case. Sometimes it is helpful to install a railing at the entrance to the house and sometimes a ramp must be considered. In the bathroom, the sensible installation of grab bars can be sufficient and sometimes a modification of the shower or bathtub is necessary. But also aids of the health insurance companies can bring relief. Ultimately, the goal of all modifications is to enable people to move around their homes safely and without accidents. Thus, senior-friendly adaptations are not a luxury, but help to remain independent for longer. In addition, home care can also be made much easier.
For over 25 years the housing consultation of the Caritas Rheine informs about meaningful and in individual cases necessary measures and their financing possibilities. Structural conditions and possible illnesses and their effects are taken into account. The consultations always take place in the domestic environment and are free. The consulting area covers the western part of the Steinfurt district.
The housing counseling is financially supported by the state associations of the nursing care insurance funds in NRW, the district of Steinfurt and the city of Rheine. For questions and information, interested parties can contact Elisabeth Nagelschmidt, from the Caritas housing counseling service Rheine, at telephone number 05971 862-348 or by e-mail at