As family members age, many homeowners face renovation decisions to support aging in place.
Renovating or remodeling key areas in a home improves accessibility for aging family members and helps them remain independent for as long as possible – whether they live in their own home or in a multigenerational household.
As more people realize the need for features that support independent aging, it’s not surprising that 73% of industry leaders say requests for aging-in-place features have increased during the last five years, according to the National Association of Home Builders. Another bonus? Thoughtful modifications improve your property value, too.
Consider these renovation ideas to create a functional space for aging family members.
Walk-In Shower
A curbless shower eliminates dangerous slips and falls. It also provides more space for necessary accessories like built-in shower seats or foldable benches, which seamlessly blend in with your bathroom design.
Install grab bars for safety and consider handheld shower heads for additional flexibility. Other bathroom renovation ideas included nonslip flooring, raised toilets with grab bars, and pull-out cabinet shelves for convenient storage.
Accessible Sinks
Install a floating vanity or accessible sink to make bathrooms and kitchens easy to use for those in wheelchairs. Typically, these are installed at a lower height. Other considerations include a shallow sink and an easy-to-use faucet, such as a touchless faucet, extended lever handles, or a hands-free pedal faucet.
Kitchen Improvements
Kitchen upgrades that improve accessibility also work to increase storage. Install pull-out shelves to easily locate appliances or dishes. Consider smart storage options like rotating or slide-out corner shelves to make the most of hard-to-reach places. Other kitchen considerations include installing appliances, such as microwaves, at a lower level.
Wider Doorways
Those using walkers and wheelchairs benefit from wider doorways and hallways. Homeowners may want to consider altering the layout if their home has stairways, narrow hallways, or sharp turns into rooms. Swapping out round doorknobs with a lever-style handle improves accessibility. Eliminate entryway steps or provide an alternate entry to promote safety when coming and going.
Upgrade Lighting
Upgrade lighting in every room to improve task lighting and increase safety. Undercabinet task lighting and additional wall or overhead lighting improves visibility. Those using wheelchairs may prefer light switches at a lower height. Consider replacing traditional light switches with easier-to-use rocker switches or motion sensor light switches that automatically turn on and off.
Smart Home Devices
Keep your loved ones safe with smart home devices that provide security and ease daily tasks. A security system ensures safety with cameras, smart locks, and remote monitoring. To help aging family members with limited mobility, smart thermostats, lighting, or motorized window shades automate home comforts. Voice-enabled appliances provide hands-free control over laundry and kitchen appliances, or smaller appliances like coffeemakers and televisions.
If you’re ready for a thoughtful, comprehensive plan that fits your unique needs, Central Construction Group offers free, no-obligation consultations so you can find the best solution for your budget. Call us at (317) 213-6246 or connect with us on Facebook or Instagram.
