For many mature homeowners, aging gracefully also means aging in place in their own homes. Here are six features of home design for aging in place that will ensure your house continues to be a viable, accessible residence:
- Improve access: Architectural features such as stairways are beautiful, but they can make your home difficult to access. Include at least one entrance that doesn’t require stairs and at least one ground-floor bathroom.
- Improve entrances: Make entry doorways wide and easy to enter, with doors that swing open to provide plenty of accessible space. Add a bench, nook or shelf where visitors can place packages, suitcases or other carried items while they open the door.
- Remove obstacles and trip hazards: Limit the use of items that someone with vision or mobility issues could slip on or trip over, such as tables, lamps with cords, small rugs and similar items.
- Make the stairs safer: Stairways can be a major obstacle to an aging person. Make sure stairs have securely attached runners to reduce the chance of slipping. Add handrails and additional lighting for stair areas.
- Use accessible plumbing fixtures and home hardware: Instead of knob-type faucets and showers, use fixtures with lever-type activators. Replace door knobs, cabinet handles and other frequently used hardware with lever-style versions.
- Plan for the future: Design your home with future needs in mind. As you age, you may need a chair lift, elevator or accessibility features to ensure you can still use your indoor spaces conveniently and comfortably. Ask your contractor to help incorporate building features that meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.
Contact Sage Builders LLC to create a home design for aging in place that will allow you to enjoy your residence for years to come.