Aging in Place is a term that was coined to encompass the aging home market who desired to stay in their home as long as possible. With home renovations that focus on making the home more comfortable, more accessible and more safe for those aging or those with mobility issues. Now more than ever we are talking with our homeowners about planning for the future.
Here are some common renovations and modifications:
Bathroom Renovations:
Grab Bars: Installing grab bars near toilets and in showers or bath areas to provide support and prevent falls. Many of our homeowners aren’t ready to install the grab bars just yet, so we plan ahead and put backing in the walls where they may desire grab bars in the future. This ensures that when they are ready we can install the grab bars safely with minimal damage to their renovated spaces.
Walk-in Showers: Removing tubs or thresholds or creating no or low thresholds allow owners to enter and exist the shower without lifting their leg making entry and exiting the shower much easier.
Kitchen Modifications:
Accessible Storage: Homeowners are opting for more drawers or pull-out trays in their cabinetry. This allows them easy access to the “back of the cabinet” items without straining their back or legs. For those high wall cabinets owners are choosing pull down accessories to bring the spice rack, etc. to their level at the countertop. This way they don’t need to bother with a wobbly step latter which could cause a fall.
Easy-to-reach Appliances: Appliances are being placed in locations that make it easier to reach and operate. Placing a drawer microwave in a base cabinet eliminates the risk for spilling of hot liquids overhead.
Accessible Fixtures: Fixtures are now made in a variety of easy to operate functions. You can switch the faucet for a lever handle making it easy to turn on our off without the need from grasping. You can also upgrade to a touch or voice activated model should you see fit.
Entryway and Interior Home Overall Modifications:
Ramps or Lifts: Installing ramps or chairlifts to overcome stairs, or ensuring the main entrance is step-free.
Wider Doorways: Widening doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers. It is recommended a full 36” to get a walker and wheelchair through, however, if you can get 42” you really gain a lot of comfort in those areas.
Thresholds: Door thresholds can be a tripping hazard. Changing the flooring or modifying the thresholds to make them flat as you pass from room to room make it easier for those who struggle with lifting their feet while walking and help get a wheelchair or walker through effortlessly.
Lighting and Electrical:
Improved Lighting: Adding brighter lighting in hallways, staircases, and task areas to enhance visibility. We are almost aways adding more lighting to bathrooms and kitchens. The most popular choices to add lights are the above cabinet and below cabinets in the kitchen and the shower/tub area in the bathrooms.
Switch Placement: Installing light switches at accessible heights and adding motion-sensing lights in key areas help illuminate the area.
Flooring:
Smooth and Even Surfaces: Ensuring flooring is smooth and even to reduce tripping hazards. See comments above about thresholds!
Carpeting: Using low-pile carpeting or rugs with non-slip backing. Many times a hard surface is easier for aging people to walk on, but temperature may be a factor too. Carpet is much warmer than a tile or vinyl alterative.
When planning renovations for aging in place, it’s essential to consider individual needs and preferences, consult with professionals and prioritize safety and functionality to support independent living for older adults. Whether you are planning for now or in the future, contact Aleto to find out how we can design and build a safe home for you, together.
