According to the United States Census, 20% of the total population will be 65 or older by 2030, and many are planning to age in place in the comfort of their own homes. While aging in place has many benefits, for those who live in two-story homes, mobility can become a huge issue as a person ages. To help combat this, without forcing someone to move into a new home, a home addition can help provide more living space that is easier to navigate.
A More Accessible Space
Home remodeling and home renovations are common, especially when it comes to making sure a person can live comfortably in their home. Renovations can include easier to navigate bathrooms with no-slip seated showers to mitigate the risk of falls, or outdoor ramps for those who are either wheelchair-bound or have difficulty going up and down steps. However, if you have a two-story house where the bedrooms are located upstairs, the daily walk to and from bed can become difficult and dangerous. While there are stair climbing machines to combat this, oftentimes adding an additional bedroom downstairs can make life exceptionally easier.
Home Additions for Aging Americans
If you have sentimental ties to your home, it’s understandable that you would want to stay there for as long as possible. However, if your home isn’t currently outfitted correctly, you could risk injury trying to navigate it. A home addition that adds additional bedroom space can help prevent falls due to stairs and can make general navigation a lot easier. Coupled with an addition that expands bathroom space, you can create a more accessible home that allows you to age in place without the fear of accidents.
For those with single-story homes, a home addition can also allow you to increase your space and create more room in the event a loved one or caregiver is needed in the future. This can allow them to easily stay in your home and further assist you daily. While not all aging individuals will need this level of care, it is something to think about, especially if you suffer from severe mobility impairments.
If you are planning on aging in the comfort of your own home, consider taking steps to make it as safe and accessible as possible. Whether you’re expanding your bathroom space to include a sit-in shower or you’re adding additional first-level bedrooms to make getting to bed easier, home additions are something to consider to ensure you can continue enjoying your home for years to come.
