As our population ages, the desire to "age in place" - that is, to live in one's own home and community for as long as possible - becomes increasingly prevalent. Remodeling your home to accommodate aging in place is a sensible approach that ensures safety, comfort, and independence. This comprehensive checklist guides you through the essential factors to consider when planning your aging in place remodel, ensuring your home evolves with your needs.
Whether you're a homeowner preparing for your own golden years or a family member supporting a loved one, understanding the unique requirements of aging in place helps create a living space that promotes well-being and provides a sense of security.
Home Accessibility and Safety
Ease of access and safety are paramount when creating an aging in place environment. Consider these significant improvements to ensure a hazard-free home.
Accessibility and safety features are typically the first steps in an aging in place remodel, as they create a solid foundation for future adaptations.
No-Step Entryways
Eliminating steps at entryways prevents falls and enables wheelchair access. Install ramps or porch lifts to create barrier-free access to your home.
Choose materials that provide excellent traction, such as textured concrete, pavers, or composite decking, for improved safety in all weather conditions.
Wide Doorways and Hallways
Widen doorways and hallways to accommodate mobility devices, such as wheelchairs or walkers. The standard recommendation is 36 inches wide, but wider is always better.
Consider installing offset hinges or pocket doors to prevent obstruction of walkways and maximize room space.
Bathroom Adaptations
The bathroom is one of the most critical areas to address when planning an aging in place remodel, as it presents numerous opportunities for injury. Prioritize these updates to create a safe and comfortable bathing environment.
Bathroom adaptations often involve replacing fixtures and adding safety features, but they can also improve accessibility and independence.
Zero-Threshold Showers
Remove shower curbs to create easy, step-free access. Install a barrier-free or low-threshold shower base for those with mobility challenges.
Combine with built-in shower seating, adjustable showerheads, and grab bars to support safe and comfortable bathing.
Comfort-height Toilet and Grab Bars
Replace standard toilets with comfort-height models for easier transfers and improved stability. Install grab bars near the toilet to provide additional support and prevent falls.
Consider adding a raised toilet seat or a bariatric toilet if needed, and ensure adequate clearance around the toilet for wheelchair accessibility.
Kitchen Modifications
The kitchen can be adapted to support aging in place with thoughtful design and innovative features. Focus on these essential elements to create an efficient and enjoyable workspace.
Kitchen modifications prioritize accessibility, safety, and convenience, allowing you to maintain independence and continue cooking and entertaining at home.
Lowered and Raised Countertops
Install countertops at varying heights to accommodate users of different statures and mobility needs. A typical range includes 34 to 36 inches for wheelchair users, 36 to 39 inches for standard use, and 42 to 45 inches for above-counter seating.
Consider incorporating a multi-level kitchen island or adding a lower section to existing counters for better accessibility.
Touchless Fixtures and Task Lighting
Install automated faucets, trash compressors, and cabinet hardware to minimize contact and prevent injuries. Upgrade lighting with task-focused designs, including under-cabinet and LED strip lights, to enhance visibility and reduce strain.
Additionally, ensure proper ambient lighting and consider adding motion-activated or dimmable lights for easy access and added convenience.
Easy-access Storage Solutions
Install pull-down shelves, Lazy Susans, and other storage aids to make items easily accessible without taxing mobility or reaching. Opt for cabinetry with roll-out trays and open shelving to simplify organization and retrieval of kitchenware.
Choose cabinet hardware that's easy to grasp and operate, such as loop or D-shaped pulls, and consider adding open shelving at varying heights to accommodate users of different statures.
The journey to an aging in place home is a transformative one, ensuring your residence remains a welcoming and supportive sanctuary throughout the years. By addressing accessibility, safety, and comfort in your remodel, you create a space that evolves with your needs and allows you to revel in the simple joys of life at home. Embrace this exciting challenge and look forward to the countless memories you'll make in your adapted living space.