Building a home with aging in place in mind is a smart choice for homeowners who want to ensure that they can continue living independently and comfortably in their homes as they age. Aging in place means designing and building a home with features and modifications that promote accessibility, safety, and comfort for older adults. By doing so, you can avoid the need to move to a retirement community or nursing home and maintain your independence and quality of life.
Here are some tips on how to build a home with aging in place in mind:
- Plan for the future: Consider your future needs and the potential challenges that may arise as you age. For example, mobility issues, vision or hearing loss, and cognitive decline are common challenges that older adults face. Plan your home design accordingly to accommodate these challenges.
- Single-level living: A single-story home with no stairs is the most accessible and convenient option for older adults. If you do plan on having multiple floors, consider installing an elevator or a chair lift for accessibility.
- Wider doorways: Wider doorways of at least 36 inches will make it easier for wheelchairs and walkers to pass through. Consider installing pocket doors, which slide into the wall when not in use, to save space.
- Open floor plan: An open floor plan with fewer walls and barriers promotes mobility and provides more space to move around. It also makes it easier to navigate through the home.
- Accessible bathroom: The bathroom is one of the most important rooms to consider when designing a home for aging in place. Install a roll-in shower with a built-in bench and grab bars, and ensure that there is enough space for a wheelchair to move around.
- Non-slip flooring: Non-slip flooring is a must-have for older adults to prevent slips and falls. Consider installing low-pile carpet, cork, or rubber flooring.
- Lever-style handles: Lever-style door handles and faucets are easier to use for older adults with arthritis or limited hand mobility than traditional knob-style handles.
- Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for older adults with poor vision or mobility issues. Install bright, evenly-distributed lighting in every room, including task lighting in the kitchen and reading areas.
- Smart home technology: Smart home technology, such as automated lighting, temperature control, and home security systems, can make living at home easier and safer for older adults.
In conclusion, building a home with aging in place in mind requires careful planning and consideration of future needs. By incorporating accessibility and safety features into your home design, you can enjoy a comfortable and independent lifestyle for years to come. Consider working with an experienced builder who understands the unique needs of older adults and can guide you through the process of building a home that meets your specific requirements.