We’ve noticed a trend in our remodeling projects: more people are thinking about their homes in terms of aging in place. Usually, these ideas come up in conversations about how a living space evolves as kids grow up, parents age, and situations change over time.
Thoughtful remodeling can accommodate evolving family needs by building safety, functionality, and accessibility into the planning process. Here are ideas we’ve used to “future proof” some of the homes we’ve worked in.
Bathrooms
Flooring: Choose textured, non-slip flooring over smooth tiles.
Grab bars: Consider installing framing for grab bars near the toilet, bathtub, and shower for added support.
Showers: Walk-in showers with zero-clearance thresholds are popular right now, and they’ll serve you well as you age. Add a handheld showerhead with adjustable settings.
Bathtubs: If you’re changing out your bathtub, make sure to frame it for future grab bars and consider adding a handheld showerhead if the tub is enclosed.
Toilets: Raised toilet seats with grab bars make sitting and standing easier. Look for toilets with a bidet feature for enhanced hygiene.
Lighting: Install bright, multi-level lighting throughout the bathroom and consider nightlights for added safety at night.
Kitchens
Countertops: Lower countertops in some areas of the kitchen improve accessibility for individuals using walkers or wheelchairs.
Appliances: Choose appliances with user-friendly controls, such as levers instead of knobs on faucets and touch-operated buttons on microwaves.
Flooring: We try to eliminate floor-level differences around kitchens to reduce the possibility of tripping.
Storage: Install pull-out drawers and cabinets and incorporate open shelving for easier access to frequently used items.
Lighting: Ensure ample task lighting under cabinets and around the sink for better visibility during food prep.
Living Areas
Living areas should be designed to facilitate easy movement and minimize fall risks. Here are some tips:
Doorways: Widen doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers comfortably. Consider installing lever handles instead of doorknobs for easier opening.
Flooring: Replace uneven surfaces with smooth, slip-resistant flooring. Opt for low-pile carpeting or area rugs with secure backing to avoid tripping hazards.
Lighting: Install dimmer switches to adjust lighting for different activities and times of day. Motion-activated lights can be helpful in hallways and entryways for added safety at night.
Beyond the Walls
Accessibility extends beyond the interior of the home. Here are some additional considerations:
Entrances: Plan entrances that can accommodate future ramps or stairlifts.
Wider, warmer driveways: Wider driveways allow for easier maneuvering when getting in and out of cars. We’ve even installed heated driveways to eliminate the need to shovel during the winter!
Smart Home Technology: Explore smart home features like automatic door openers, video intercom systems, voice-activated controls, and remotely controlled thermostats for enhanced convenience and safety.
The great thing about designing for aging in place is that most accommodations can be seamlessly integrated into your remodeling plan. So, if you’re thinking about a remodeling project, there’s no reason not to include some aspects of aging in place. Give us a call if you’d like to talk it over!
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