Aging in place refers to the ability to live independently, comfortably, and safely in your home as you age. What once was a very institutional look for people with physical challenges is now a design style perfect for all ages. As award-winning Certified Aging-In-Place Specialists (CAPS), Roeser Home Remodeling has created a four-page checklist of home modifications to consider that reduce the risk of falls, support mobility challenges, and enhance the overall quality of life at home - for not only seniors but the whole family. Here are a few things to start thinking about now.
First-floor living, including a full bathroom and laundry room. Zero-step entries eliminate steps and thresholds. Doorways and hallways at least 36” wide. Good lighting is key. Lowered windows or taller windows with lowered sills, sun tunnels, and skylights increase natural light. Slip-resistant flooring and smooth and low-pile carpet are easier to walk on, and lever-style door handles and faucets are easier to grip.
Reinforced interior wall support and provision for adjustable and/or varied counter heights. Removable base cabinets and upper cabinets are 3” lower than conventional height. Base cabinets with roll-out trays, drawers, lazy Susans, and pull-down shelving add easy access to kitchen items. Contrasting edge boarders at countertops for visibility of where the countertop starts provides a nice feature in the bathroom and kitchen.
To prepare food safely, side swing or wall ovens reduce the risk of injury. Place microwave ovens at counter height or purchase a microwave drawer. Electric cooktops with level burners, front controls, and downdraft features to pull heat away from the user are also excellent. Induction cooktops have several of our favorite features for aging in place and are also safe for young children.
Appliances should have easy-to-read controls. Washing machines and dryers raised 12”-15” above the floor, along with front-loading capacity, help with all laundry needs. Consider raised dishwashers with push-button controls. Comfort-height toilets with an electrical outlet behind the toilet for a bidet, seating around the front of the bathtub, and grab bars in the shower offer safety as well as elegant style.
Visit roeserconstruction.com for more information.