1. Home Owners needs to get a written estimate.
2. Estimates should outline work and be specific on what is included.
3. Home Owners should receive a contract, read it, understand it, sign it and keep a copy.
4. All agreements and changes should be in writing
5. Never allow a contractor to perform change order work without agreeing to a price prior to them performing work.
6. Home owners ask for and receive a copy of the contractors liability and workman’s compensation insurance certificate before any work is performed. Everyone who performs construction in New York State is required to have both. Home owners name and address should be in box on bottom of insurance certificate.
7. Home owner should not give the contractor any more that 25% as a deposit unless contractor has to pay for a specialty piece of equipment up front
8. Contractor should file for and receive a building permit for work to be performed.
9. Contractor should arrange for and have building department make necessary inspections.
10. Owner should receive a copy of any inspection report and receive final certificate of occupancy or inspection report prior to giving contractor final payment.
11. On major projects, owner may request an inspection by an outside inspection agency prior to making final payment.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Considerations for Individuals, Families, Home Owners and Care Givers
1. Is there a way to create a master bedroom with accessible bath on the first floor?
2. Is there a need and can we create an independent living quarters within the house for a home health live in aid, care giver or a family member?
3. Is clutter an issue. Does home owner need to declutter and simplify to make home safe and accessible?
4. Are bathroom modifications necessary? Would it be safer to install a zero lip tub (curbless) or grab bars?
5. Do doorways need to be widened to 32” minimum. We recommend 36” where possible. Should we install lever handle hardware for ease of operation in opening doors?
6. What is access from exterior driveway and walkway? Is driveway and walkway surface accessible as well?
7. Are there carpets throughout residence that will make accessibility difficult? Are there area or throw rugs that can cause tripping?
8. Are there changes in level or thresholds on the first floor that create tripping hazards?
9. Are appliances and counter tops accessible and at a good working height? Do we need to remove a base cabinet and lower kitchen or vanity sink to make it accessible?
10. Is lighting adequate to make pathways and travel safe? Should we add motion sensors?
11. Is individual going to be able to use existing furnishings? Can they get in or out of existing bed or chair?
12. Do all stairs have handrails?
If you would like a FREE consultation by our Occupational Therapist or Certified Aging in Place Specialist to determine whether your home is "senior friendly" contact us at: 845-635-1416
2. Is there a need and can we create an independent living quarters within the house for a home health live in aid, care giver or a family member?
3. Is clutter an issue. Does home owner need to declutter and simplify to make home safe and accessible?
4. Are bathroom modifications necessary? Would it be safer to install a zero lip tub (curbless) or grab bars?
5. Do doorways need to be widened to 32” minimum. We recommend 36” where possible. Should we install lever handle hardware for ease of operation in opening doors?
6. What is access from exterior driveway and walkway? Is driveway and walkway surface accessible as well?
7. Are there carpets throughout residence that will make accessibility difficult? Are there area or throw rugs that can cause tripping?
8. Are there changes in level or thresholds on the first floor that create tripping hazards?
9. Are appliances and counter tops accessible and at a good working height? Do we need to remove a base cabinet and lower kitchen or vanity sink to make it accessible?
10. Is lighting adequate to make pathways and travel safe? Should we add motion sensors?
11. Is individual going to be able to use existing furnishings? Can they get in or out of existing bed or chair?
12. Do all stairs have handrails?
If you would like a FREE consultation by our Occupational Therapist or Certified Aging in Place Specialist to determine whether your home is "senior friendly" contact us at: 845-635-1416
Monday, June 7, 2010
Are you or your loved ones driving safely?
There may be questions that you have about the safety of an older driver and the ability to maintain one’s independence while living at home. This is always a delicate issue for families to address and most do not know how what to do next. The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) has developed key points to consider and discuss with your loved ones.
• Most seniors depend on an automobile for the bulk of their travel, with 90% of their trips taken in private vehicles, either as drivers or passengers.
• Traveling in a private vehicle, particularly driving it, provides seniors with independence, enabling them to get to essential services and make social contact outside the home. For many, it is an important aspect of wellness and aging in place.
• When physical and mental limitations make it difficult to drive safely, most older adults gradually withdraw from driving.
• The most common cause of unsafe driving by older drivers includes vision impairment, cognitive limitations, side effects of medications, slower reaction times, muscular difficulties, and limited range of motion.
• When driving is curtailed, seniors may find themselves isolated from the activities that had filled their lives, especially if they live in suburban or rural areas where public transportation can be cumbersome, if available at all. Isolation can undermine one’s quality of life and accelerate health decline.
• Older drivers pose the greatest risk to themselves and are not a significant risk to others.
Who Can Help?
Occupational therapy driving rehabilitation specialists can conduct clinical (vision, reaction time, perceptual skills) and on-road driving assessments and offer treatment plans that range from modifying driving habits to installing adaptive equipment in the automobile. These specialists can also help ease seniors through the possible transition to other modes of transportation.
It is important for families to maintain an ongoing discussion about the driving safety of their loved ones so problems can be addressed before they arise.
To find an occupational therapist who specializes in driving rehabilitation contact the Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists at www.aded.net
• Most seniors depend on an automobile for the bulk of their travel, with 90% of their trips taken in private vehicles, either as drivers or passengers.
• Traveling in a private vehicle, particularly driving it, provides seniors with independence, enabling them to get to essential services and make social contact outside the home. For many, it is an important aspect of wellness and aging in place.
• When physical and mental limitations make it difficult to drive safely, most older adults gradually withdraw from driving.
• The most common cause of unsafe driving by older drivers includes vision impairment, cognitive limitations, side effects of medications, slower reaction times, muscular difficulties, and limited range of motion.
• When driving is curtailed, seniors may find themselves isolated from the activities that had filled their lives, especially if they live in suburban or rural areas where public transportation can be cumbersome, if available at all. Isolation can undermine one’s quality of life and accelerate health decline.
• Older drivers pose the greatest risk to themselves and are not a significant risk to others.
Who Can Help?
Occupational therapy driving rehabilitation specialists can conduct clinical (vision, reaction time, perceptual skills) and on-road driving assessments and offer treatment plans that range from modifying driving habits to installing adaptive equipment in the automobile. These specialists can also help ease seniors through the possible transition to other modes of transportation.
It is important for families to maintain an ongoing discussion about the driving safety of their loved ones so problems can be addressed before they arise.
To find an occupational therapist who specializes in driving rehabilitation contact the Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists at www.aded.net
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Security
The most valuable possession you have is the CONFIDENCE that you are secure in your home and that your home is secure when you are away. The most valuable security system is the one that doesn’t change your lifestyle, is EASY TO USE and is installed and maintained to be TROUBLE FREE.
A properly designed system takes your priorities and your lifestyle into account. Intrusion security can be designed so that you can leave windows open without concern, allows your pets to roam, (allows you to roam too!), and stops an intruder while he is still outside your home.
A personal medical emergency response button (PERS) is fully portable and will work within 100 feet of your home. It will allow you to maintain a comfortable level of physical activity with the assurance that help, if you need it, is literally, at your fingertips.
Interior motion sensors can also act as Activity Monitors. If you are alone and unable to leave your room, your alarm system will be able to communicate the unusual lack of activity. It’s nice to know that you can have your privacy and independence without fear.
Monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors sound local alarms for your notification and more importantly, communicate an emergency signal to the central station for rapid dispatch to fire authorities. In a life threatening situation first response professionals can assist in your timely evacuation.
Adult children and friends will appreciate knowing that you have the tools you need to maintain a safe and independent lifestyle. Monitoring of medical, intrusion, fire and carbon monoxide sensors will provide an immediate dispatch of first responders and the people you designate. You will help when you need it (only when you need it) – FAST!
Properly designed, locally monitored Hammond Security Systems provide only as much security as you need without complicated keypads making you feel like you are the one locked up! Easy to use, trouble-free, custom designed and secure – Isn’t that the way you want to live in your home?
For more information contact:
Kim Sears - VP Sales
Hammond Security
845-471-3441 office
www.HammondSecurity.com
A properly designed system takes your priorities and your lifestyle into account. Intrusion security can be designed so that you can leave windows open without concern, allows your pets to roam, (allows you to roam too!), and stops an intruder while he is still outside your home.
A personal medical emergency response button (PERS) is fully portable and will work within 100 feet of your home. It will allow you to maintain a comfortable level of physical activity with the assurance that help, if you need it, is literally, at your fingertips.
Interior motion sensors can also act as Activity Monitors. If you are alone and unable to leave your room, your alarm system will be able to communicate the unusual lack of activity. It’s nice to know that you can have your privacy and independence without fear.
Monitored smoke and carbon monoxide detectors sound local alarms for your notification and more importantly, communicate an emergency signal to the central station for rapid dispatch to fire authorities. In a life threatening situation first response professionals can assist in your timely evacuation.
Adult children and friends will appreciate knowing that you have the tools you need to maintain a safe and independent lifestyle. Monitoring of medical, intrusion, fire and carbon monoxide sensors will provide an immediate dispatch of first responders and the people you designate. You will help when you need it (only when you need it) – FAST!
Properly designed, locally monitored Hammond Security Systems provide only as much security as you need without complicated keypads making you feel like you are the one locked up! Easy to use, trouble-free, custom designed and secure – Isn’t that the way you want to live in your home?
For more information contact:
Kim Sears - VP Sales
Hammond Security
845-471-3441 office
www.HammondSecurity.com
Landscaping
What is the number one misconception about landscapes? That to have a great landscape you must devote a great deal of time and energy to maintain it. While residents of the Hudson Valley do have a variety of landscape companies that they can call on to complete tasks and install new landscapes, Garden Gate Landscape designs and installs landscapes that fit our senior clients’ needs, now and in the future.
There are a variety of ways to install low maintenance landscapes that will stay low maintenance. It’s true that you have to invest a small amount of time, energy and or money into them, but it is possible to have a beautiful landscape with only a spring and fall clean up.
Garden Gate Landscape can help you design and install a landscape that’s both beautiful and low maintenance, ensuring you are not left with a landscape you cannot manage or care for. We are a true full service landscape design firm, offering clients a variety of services that include all aspects of care for their landscapes. We ensure high quality design and installation for all our projects, regardless of your budget and are dedicated to giving you the full value of your dollar. Throughout the entire process we stand by this commitment to you.
Typically, although not always, a landscape designer creates a personal design with the client’s needs in mind. We are committed to creating function and aesthetically pleasing space for you to enjoy for a lifetime. Through our creative and artistic design process we create a landscape that you have always wanted and can easily care for. Once we have a landscape design that you are happy with, the installation is coordinated by the same designer that designed the landscape. During the installation we work only with local, professional and qualified contractors, drawing from a number of contactors to find the right fit for each specific job.
We will be in contact with you throughout the design and installation process. From the initial phone call to the final walk through, we will be available to you for the duration of your project, keeping you informed. We work with our clients at their pace and while some clients want to complete everything in a short window of time, many more take their time with a project, mulling over choices, considering each option before making their decision. Whatever clients require we are able to adapt to each client and their needs. We are adept at successfully developing pragmatic solutions for both large to very small projects, ensuring their clients have a landscape they both love and enjoy. Our staff is professional and punctual; offering an exceptional standard of service that our clients rely on.
If you would like to meet with us to see how we can assist you with
your landscape needs, contact us at 845.876.5198 or visit www.gardengateny.com for more information.
There are a variety of ways to install low maintenance landscapes that will stay low maintenance. It’s true that you have to invest a small amount of time, energy and or money into them, but it is possible to have a beautiful landscape with only a spring and fall clean up.
Garden Gate Landscape can help you design and install a landscape that’s both beautiful and low maintenance, ensuring you are not left with a landscape you cannot manage or care for. We are a true full service landscape design firm, offering clients a variety of services that include all aspects of care for their landscapes. We ensure high quality design and installation for all our projects, regardless of your budget and are dedicated to giving you the full value of your dollar. Throughout the entire process we stand by this commitment to you.
Typically, although not always, a landscape designer creates a personal design with the client’s needs in mind. We are committed to creating function and aesthetically pleasing space for you to enjoy for a lifetime. Through our creative and artistic design process we create a landscape that you have always wanted and can easily care for. Once we have a landscape design that you are happy with, the installation is coordinated by the same designer that designed the landscape. During the installation we work only with local, professional and qualified contractors, drawing from a number of contactors to find the right fit for each specific job.
We will be in contact with you throughout the design and installation process. From the initial phone call to the final walk through, we will be available to you for the duration of your project, keeping you informed. We work with our clients at their pace and while some clients want to complete everything in a short window of time, many more take their time with a project, mulling over choices, considering each option before making their decision. Whatever clients require we are able to adapt to each client and their needs. We are adept at successfully developing pragmatic solutions for both large to very small projects, ensuring their clients have a landscape they both love and enjoy. Our staff is professional and punctual; offering an exceptional standard of service that our clients rely on.
If you would like to meet with us to see how we can assist you with
your landscape needs, contact us at 845.876.5198 or visit www.gardengateny.com for more information.
Real Estate and Retrofitting Senior Homes
Approximately 90% of seniors are now retiring in our area. There is a dire need to provide better housing for our aging population. Unmet demands for this segment of the population are crucial, although senior housing has come quite a ways in the past few years. Seniors, as we know, are used to and are attached to the dwelling they’ve been occupying for many years and, for most, their desire is to remain in their homes and the comfort of their surroundings. Having to give up furniture, space, and family gatherings is emotionally draining on many. Their concerns on how furniture will fit in a new dwelling are common for many who have had their belongings for years as well. Retrofitting their current homes is a very viable way to satisfy their desire to continue to enjoy their homes where there lifestyle needs little change and they can continue to accommodate the gathering of family and friends. Retrofitting also means making changes both in the interior and the exterior of their home to accommodate the aging process and any challenges that may arise during their “golden years’ journey. One of the advantages to the home modification process is allowing baby boomers who are coming up on their “golden years” to have homes available to them for sale that currently fit their lifestyle, that of a spouse or will be prepared for them for the future and any issues that may arise. This is an untouched market that will flourish in the coming years. Having been the listing brokerage for a Senior Development, I was made aware first hand of the wants, desires, concerns and burdens of seniors having to give up their homes & downscale to a new location. Considering changes of furniture, space and family gatherings is often overwhelming for many of them. The concerns of how furniture will fit in a new dwelling is a common concern for many who have had their belongings for years, as well, and who are attached to things from the past. Retrofitting homes to accommodate the aging solves a myriad of problems for both current seniors and baby boomers soon to see this lifestyle a reality. As a REALTOR I would much rather see contented home-owners who can, at some point, pass on their home through sale to those with similar needs in the future. There is an abundance in the market for retrofitting and new senior housing to co-exist and satisfy the wants and desires of the senior population both current and future.
For more information on real estate and the market for senior housing, contact: Robin S. Carbone Broker/Owner, Director Dutchess County Board of REALTORS®
Genesis Heritage Real Estate
447 Route 376 Hopewell Jct.
New York 12533
845-226-6610 Bus 845-226-7910 Fax 2009
For more information on real estate and the market for senior housing, contact: Robin S. Carbone Broker/Owner, Director Dutchess County Board of REALTORS®
Genesis Heritage Real Estate
447 Route 376 Hopewell Jct.
New York 12533
845-226-6610 Bus 845-226-7910 Fax 2009
Benefits of Generators for the Elderly
In our area, having a generator during a power outage is very beneficial. As experienced this past winter, Central Hudson comments that it was the worst winter on record. A generator can provide peace of mind and may actually be life-saving or, at the very least, ease an unpleasant experience such as an extended power outage due to something like a storm. As long as proper safety considerations are followed, having a generator can be incredibly valuable during a power outage. If an emergency arises, you will be glad you took this extra step. While generators can be a great tool for people of any age, they tend to be especially valuable for the elderly.
The elderly face more distress than the average person. Elderly individuals tend to get the most benefit from having a generator. Because they are more susceptible to temperature variations and are at greater risk for hypothermia during the winter months than younger individuals, being without heat or air conditioning for an extended length of time can be detrimental to the health of elderly individuals. Many elderly individuals also rely on medications that require refrigeration. If an extended power outage occurs, the medicine can go bad, which can cause serious complications. For an elderly, insulin-dependent diabetic, keeping a power supply to the refrigerator is crucial.
Having a generator in case of a power outage is a wise decision. A generator can provide added peace of mind until power is restored by keeping power supplied to your house. We often forget how much we rely on power to keep perishable food and medication that require refrigeration to be stored at the proper temperature.
If you have any elderly family member who currently doesn’t have a generator, consider getting them one as a gift or having other family members chip in with you so the cost isn’t too prohibitive. It’s a gift that could literally save a life.
Written by Don Veith, Veith Electric in Poughkeepsie, NY. For more information on generators, please contact them at 845-485-2900 or www.veithelectric.com.
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