By the time 2030 rolls around, nearly 20% of the population of the United States will be older than 65. Many of these individuals are making plans to bypass retirement communities and instead age in place while living in their own homes. If you plan to remodel your home to make it appropriate for aging in place, it may be best to prepare now. Some homes will require extensive remodeling to make this possible, but the investment is well worth it to be able to stay in the home that you love. As you plan, it’s wise to consider the following options for home renovations:
Focus on the First Floor
Work with your contractor and make a comprehensive plan for what you expect aging in place to look like for you. It may be wise to focus on the first floor of your home, as this will be the most accessible area. Consider widening doorways, adding an outside ramp for accessibility, and lowering counters so that they’re easier to reach while sitting. These options can make your home more comfortable for you to live in as you age.
Consider Accessibility
Overall, focus on future accessibility for your home. Make sure that traffic areas are wide enough for a walker, wheelchair, or for you to walk with a cane. Consider making closet and bathroom doorways wider so that you can get in and out with ease. Adjust bathrooms with fixtures like walk-in showers and tubs, grab bars, and nonslip flooring, so that everything is as safe as possible. Stairlifts, laundry chutes, and other amenities can also dramatically improve your quality of life.
Replace Flooring
The type of flooring in your home can make a dramatic difference in terms of safety. Speak with your contractor about the best options for nonslip flooring, so that you can decide on something that looks great but limits trip and fall hazards. This will help ensure that you’re as safe as possible as you age in place in your remodeled home.
Home renovations can go a long way towards making sure that your home is comfortable for decades to come. A skilled contractor can help you evaluate your current home, then provide you with numerous options for making it more accessible for you as you age. Make an appointment for a quote today to learn how we can help you set up your entire home for aging in place safely and happily.
