浴室适老化“小改造”，撬动幸福生活“大工程” “我们老年人，现在洗澡更安心”（民生一线·银发经济促消费）

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the challenges faced by elderly individuals in adapting their living spaces, particularly bathrooms, to ensure safety and comfort as they age. It emphasizes the importance of home modifications to enhance the quality of life for seniors in urban areas, particularly in Shanghai's Changning District, which has a significant aging population [4][6]. Group 1: Elderly Challenges - Elderly individuals, like Xuan Huiqing, face significant difficulties in using traditional bathrooms due to physical limitations, such as the risk of falling when stepping over thresholds and using slippery surfaces [3][4]. - The psychological impact of these challenges is evident, as elderly individuals express anxiety and fear regarding their safety during daily activities like bathing [3][6]. Group 2: Home Modification Solutions - A market-driven initiative in Shanghai offers a comprehensive bathroom modification package for seniors, addressing specific safety concerns such as removing thresholds, adding non-slip surfaces, and installing grab bars [4][5]. - The cost of the modification package is approximately 9,900 yuan, with government subsidies available to reduce the financial burden on families, allowing Xuan Huiqing to pay less than 7,000 yuan after subsidies [4][5]. Group 3: Implementation and Impact - The modification process is designed to minimize disruption to daily life, utilizing "dry construction" techniques that reduce noise and dust, allowing seniors to continue their routines during renovations [5][6]. - Post-modification, seniors report improved safety and comfort, with many expressing regret for not having made changes sooner, indicating a strong demand for such services in the community [6][7]. Group 4: Future Developments - As of 2024, Changning District has completed 1,835 elderly-friendly modifications, with a total subsidy of 6.8 million yuan, highlighting the growing need for such services [6]. - Future policies will allow seniors to apply for multiple subsidies over a three-year period, further encouraging home modifications to enhance living conditions for the elderly [6][7].