Explore aging-in-place home remodeling tips to enhance your home’s safety and comfort at every stage of life. At Lincorp/Borchert, our Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) accreditation ensures we have the specialized training to craft accessible and enjoyable environments, tailored perfectly to support your independence as you age.
Mobility-Friendly Layouts:
Open floor plans are not just trendy; they are practical for aging-in-place designs. Wide doorways and spacious hallways are not mere conveniences; they are necessities that empower mobility and independence. Consider creating open floor plans with plenty of room for maneuvering. This includes wider doorways of at least 36 inches and hallways of 42 inches wide, which are crucial for wheelchair or walker access. Choose threshold-free entrances and exits to ensure smooth transitions between rooms.
Bathroom Adaptations for Safety:
A bathroom remodel with safety in mind might include walk-in showers with seating and easily accessible controls. Well-placed grab bars and slip-resistant flooring are not only practical but can be stylishly integrated into your design. In the bathroom, install walk-in showers with built-in seating and hand-held showerheads. Controls should be within easy reach. Grab bars should be installed in the shower area and beside the toilet, following ADA guidelines for height and placement. Opt for textured tile flooring to prevent slips when wet.
Accessible Kitchens for Autonomy:
Kitchens can be remodeled with lower countertops for seated use and pull-out shelving for easy access. Simple changes, like lever handles for faucets and drawers instead of lower cabinets, can make a world of difference. For kitchen remodels, lower countertops to a height of 30 inches from the floor can accommodate seated users. Pull-out shelves and lazy Susans in corner cabinets can maximize storage accessibility. Consider installing touch-activated or single-lever faucets, and ensure appliances like dishwashers and microwaves are installed at reachable heights.
Enhanced Lighting for Clarity and Safety:
Optimal lighting reduces strain and prevents accidents. Consider a combination of ambient, task, and accent lighting to create a bright, evenly lit space without glare. Layer different types of lighting to enhance visibility. Ambient lighting can provide overall illumination, while task lighting can focus on areas like countertops and stovetops. Consider rocker switches that are easier to operate than traditional toggle switches, and place them at reachable heights.
Flooring that Favors Stability:
The right flooring choice can prevent slips and falls. Materials like textured vinyl or low-pile carpet offer security without sacrificing style. Flooring options like textured vinyl or low-pile carpet can offer slip resistance while still being easy to navigate with mobility aids. It’s also important to eliminate any potential trip hazards, such as loose rugs or uneven transitions between different types of flooring.
Smart Technology for Comfort:
Smart home technology can provide convenience and safety, from automated thermostats to security systems that can be easily monitored from a smartphone. Leverage technology like smart thermostats, which can be controlled via smartphone or voice command. Automated lighting systems and security features that can be monitored remotely not only add convenience but also enhance safety.
Conclusion:
Implementing these aging-in-place home remodeling tips can significantly enhance the comfort and safety of your living environment. As your needs evolve, so should your home. Lincorp/Borchert is dedicated to creating spaces that adapt to you.
Embrace the future with confidence. Reach out to Lincorp/Borchert today to discuss how our CAPS certified professionals can tailor your home to suit your lifestyle, now and in the years ahead.