Marjory Lalime

Opting for Aging at Home

In our July 2010 Issue of our Quarterly Newsletter- Pipeline, we introduced one of our wonderful long time customers, Marjory Lalime as we were beginning her downstairs bathroom remodel. Marjory is in her late seventies, and feels fortunate to be physically fit and very active. She knows she wants to stay in

Although none of us ever think we will end up in residential care, Americans are living longer and longer. Chances are we will have to face a decision regarding our own care at some point in our lives. Or, worse yet, enlist others, usually our children or doctors, to make decisions for us—at a time of crisis, during sickness, a sudden surgery or a broken bone. It is usually not until after a hospital visit- that the reality of the situation really hits home- so to speak. The house you’ve been living in- simply no longer works. Stairs become insurmountable, bathtubs are impossible to climb into, and light switches are now out of reach and so on. The longer you wait, the older you get --the less control you may have over your situation.

Mid-Coast Energy specializes in renovation plans that incorporate exciting and stylish universal bath fixtures, and thoughtful installation of safety features in a handicap adaptable floor plan. We believe that such conversations are essential between designer and client. With so many choices on the market today, it’s very desirable to plan a renovation or design a new house well prepared to serve a span of many, many years. The most cost- effective and least stressful time to consider how your house will be used by people of all ages, is when you are in the process of buying, building, or remodeling a house, during your fifties, sixties and even younger. This is exactly when special emphasis on the lasting endurance of kitchen and bathroom design really pays off. According to Mid-coast Energy’s Estimates Manager Gina Philippon, many customers can see that by making it possible to remain at home as they grow older, they can save a lot of money. Even if they ever do choose to sell, they have increased the value, and marketability of their home by choosing desirable features.

We mentioned this fact in the first article, but it bears repeating- the most shocking revelation to most people, is that Aging In Place Home Modifications rarely amount to more than the cost of just two months of nursing home care! So little wonder we’ve been busy with bath modifications and beyond…. MCES customer Marjory Lalime was one of them.

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Here’s Part II of her story. .

Marje Lalime’s Bathroom Renovation Complete - Part II

I returned to Marjory’s lovely condo on the Damariscotta River; her redesign now complete. The fixtures in her old bathroom were tired and in need of updating and the floor plan could work better with some reorganization. Marjory decided to take advantage of the timing of her remodel by looking into universal fixtures and features that adapt to any physical disabilities or limitations as we age. Since this first floor bathroom was conveniently located right next to a room that will one day become her primary bedroom, it was the perfect candidate for a remodel. By modifying her environment now, she’s adding safety, comfort and security for years to come.

The notion of Marjory’s new bathroom all began in early 2010 when she recalled the recent challenges of a few of her friends who became ill experienced when they discovered they could no longer function living in their own home. At that point, she realized that being prepared for a broken bone, temporary limited mobility due to a surgery or other incident like a mild stroke, could mean the difference between going home to convalesce or being forced to stay at a rehabilitation center for awhile, or even permanent placement in a nursing home.

The Difference in Design-

Aesthetically speaking, the old wooden sink vanity with storage below seemed to swallow up the entire room. MCES Sales and Estimating Manager Gina Philippon, who guided Marjory through this process, suggested a Pedestal Sink (Mansfield 329 - White) allowing for more space to move around in. Towels and

bathroom supplies were moved to an adjacent built- in closet. The sink features a Kohler Lavatory Faucet: (#k12181) in Polished Chrome. Marjory says “The one- lever faucet is very easy to use …I can hit it with just one hand.”

The Beauty and Endurance of Universal Fixtures-

Bathtubs are the big challenge to anyone with any type of physical limitation. Gina redesigned the space as a walk- in tiled shower. Marjory says “Entering a walk- in shower instead of a tub that requires climbing over-- has made life so much easier already.”

She now feels very comfortable and secure, and likes having a grab bar “in just the perfect place- built right into the tile.” For even more ease- of -use, Gina recommended a Handheld Shower: Alsons 465C with Four Spray massage. Mid-Coast installed the Ventilation Fan and Light Fixture above the mirror for Marje. The model is Progress #P3374-15 in chrome.

The concern for budget:

Regarding the budget Marjory had this to say: “I was so pleased that Mid-Coast stayed very close to my budget --in spite of the fact that we added several small things we did not plan to.”

The Constant Focus on Conservation:

“And… I love that my new toilet only uses 1.6 gallons of water with each flush!” says Marje of her new Kohler highline toilet Model # K-3611. At Mid-Coast Energy, Conservation and Efficiency are always high on the list of priorities.

The absolute convenience of Mid-Coast Energy-

Marjory knew that Mid-Coast would provide all of the necessary services to get her job done. One call--one company to work with.

Once Estimates Manager Gina Philippon provided Marjory with a plan, expert Electricians Ed Anderson and Master Plumber Brian Warren handled the electrical installations. Fred Montgomery, Craig Simoneau installed the plumbing, while Keith Farnsworth provided finishing touches.

MCE also contracts highly experienced tradesmen to provide design/build services for our clients. Clint Smith, Carpenter and Tile Expert of twenty-five years installed Marjory’s shower, and reconfigured her storage space. MCE’s Gina Philippon provided Marjory with smart options to incorporate into her bathroom renovation. By enlisting

universal design principals and safety features that modify the home in key areas, Marje now can enjoy peace of mind and a beautiful new bathroom.

For information on how we can help you to live in your own home safely and longer, please call Mid-Coast Energy Systems at 1 207-563-5147 for a free consultation.

Article Written By: Holly Haining