Create Your Forever Home: Tips for Aging in Place

What if your forever home could really be forever? In recent years, “aging in place” has become the phrase used to describe renovating a home to make it safe for an aging population of homeowners. An increasing number of people are choosing to stay at home rather than transition into a nursing home. A recent AARP survey found that 75% of adults ages 50 and older hope to remain in their homes. 

Nursing homes offer benefits like caregivers, medical personnel and assisted living. However, growing old at home carries its own unique benefits. Moving later in life can be jarring, especially for those with dementia. Owning a home can be cheaper than transitioning to a nursing home, plus it provides a sense of independence. 

Aging in place doesn’t come without some risks. Elderly individuals who struggle with dexterity, balance and health issues may not be safe in their existing space. But that doesn’t have to be the end of the story. Aging in place specialists understand how to evaluate a home and make changes to allow safer living. 

Eric Schaefer, project manager at 360 Construction & Design, earned the National Association of Home Builders Details and Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging in Place Certification. He uses his knowledge and training to help Alaskans address aging-in-place remodels.

Exterior

More than one in four people age 65 or older fall every year, making entranceways one of the most important areas to address. Driveway and entryway surfaces need to be smooth, free of tripping hazards. Add lighting, especially to walkways leading to entry points. Install a grab bar, handrails or ramp. There are even portable ramp options on the market. 

Entrance 

Who hasn’t tripped over shoes or a dog leash at the front door? For many, it’s an inconvenience; for the elderly, it can be deadly. Eliminate all tripping hazards in the entryway, including rugs and cords. If there’s enough space, adding a bench will provide a safe space to remove shoes. For homes with staircases, stair lifts benefit people with a variety of issues, especially those who have bedrooms on floors other than the main floor. 

Living Room 

Mobility issues are one of the greatest challenges many elderly people face. While some homeowners have the foresight to build homes with ADA-compliant hallways and doorways, that’s not usually the case. Modifying a home to make it wheelchair accessible is often the biggest expense for aging in place renovations.  

An ADA-compliant doorway must be at least 32 inches wide. There’s a lot to consider before undertaking this renovation, like cost, layout and if walls are load-bearing. During this renovation, many experts also recommend removing doorway thresholds as they’re a major tripping hazard. For easier changes, install grab bars and motion detection or smart lighting. 

Bathrooms 

Slippery floors are a recipe for disaster. Luckily, there are a few quick fixes to improve safety. Grab bars, toilet modifications, shower chairs and extra lighting are small additions that make a big difference. These are modifications you can do yourself. In some cases it may be necessary to hire a contractor to widen the space for wheelchair accessibility or install an ADA-compliant shower. 

Kitchen 

Similar to the bathroom, the kitchen is a heavily trafficked space. The extent of potential modifications can vary greatly based on the layout and appliances in the kitchen. One of the first recommendations many experts make is to move commonly used items to a height between the chest and waist. This can prevent injuries from bending over or reaching high. Pull-out shelves in cabinets also make it easier to reach items.  

It may be crucial to swap some appliances. Experts recommend installing an induction cooktop. This minimizes burn risk and many also include an auto-shutoff feature. ADA-compliant fridges frequently include bottom-freezers or french-style doors. 

Bedroom 

The bedroom should be a safe, comfortable space and that means accessibility. If possible, move the bedroom to the first floor. Ideally, the bedroom will include a well-lit walk-in closet with storage that’s easy to reach. Lowering the shelves is one way to make access easier. Ensure there’s a clear and easy path to the doorway and adjoining bathroom. Install windows with fittings that can be used easily by people with arthritis and those with visual impairments. 

You don’t have to say goodbye to your home and neighborhood just because your birthday cake is piled high with candles. More and more individuals are choosing to modify their homes to age with them. If you want an aging in place assessment, give us a call (907) 646-1403.