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 | Stephen Hage (above), owner of Strategies for Independent Living, specializes in customizing homes to accommodate special needs. |
Building toward independence
Takoma Park contractor helps
seniors and disabled live better lives at home
by Sara Wald
Trish Daley has never been able to use her own kitchen. Affected by a biological condition that affects growth, she was never able to reach an average adult height. Counters, appliances, and light switches in a standard home's kitchen were literally out of reach.
Then Trish heard about Strategies for Independent Living, a Takoma Park company that provides home design and construction for seniors and people with disabilities. After consultation with Trish to determine her needs, the company installed 24-inch-high countertops in her home.
"She was able to cook for the first time in her life," said Stephen Hage, owner and founder of the company.
Hage says his approach is to consider a person's entire life and family dynamic when identifying problems and solutions in their home.
"An independent living strategist looks at the whole picture," Hage said, "He has a holistic view towards the client."
Hage says his job starts with a meeting to pinpoint the problem. He suggests solutions that factor in the client's budget and often the input of family members concerned about older relatives.
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Hage's work includes indoor safety features and outdoor accessibility assistance. |
"The family comes away from the process with hope and a confidence that something really can be done," Hage said.
After the consultation, Hage provides design and construction services. Many times this includes installation of stair lifts, safety railings, and grab bars. He does much of the installations himself, but uses contractors for jobs that are beyond his capabilities.
Hage credits the success of his business to the fact that there has always been a need for his kind of work.
"I'm remodeling these homes because they weren't built right in the first place," said Hage.
In addition to his one-man show as president, facilitator, and contractor, Hage considers himself an advocate for seniors and people with disabilities. Much of his time outside of work is with organizations in support of caregivers and their families. He speaks to groups on topics related to safety and independence in the home.
"I read an AARP survey where 90 percent of the people surveyed said they'd rather live at home," said Hage. "There is a growing awareness that it can be done, and therefore a growing demand for it."
Hage hopes to be more effective in getting his message out. His goal for the future is to reach markets that he hasn't yet, such as hospitals and doctors' offices.
"I want to help people," said Hage. "I don't say that lightly, and that's what makes me different than any other contractor."
Stephen Hage can be reached at 301-585-5738.
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