As the golden years approach, many individuals are faced with the decision of where to spend their retirement and how to ensure they can comfortably age in place. Building a custom home with aging in place in mind is a forward-thinking solution that provides not only the comforts of home but also the independence and safety needed for a fulfilling retirement. In this blog post, we will explore the key considerations and design elements that go into creating a custom home that supports aging in place.
Accessibility is Key
When designing a custom home for aging in place, accessibility should be at the forefront of your plans. Consider the following:
- Single-story living: A single-story home eliminates the need for stairs, making it easier for individuals with mobility issues to navigate their living space.
- Wider doorways and hallways: Ensure that doorways and hallways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers comfortably.
- Zero-step entries: Having a zero-step entry, where there is no elevation change at the entrance, makes it easier for individuals with mobility challenges to enter and exit the home.
- Lever-style door handles and faucets: Replace traditional knobs with lever-style handles that are easier to grip and manipulate, especially for those with arthritis.
Universal Design Principles
Incorporating universal design principles into your custom home ensures that it is not only accessible but also aesthetically pleasing and functional for everyone. Some universal design elements include:
- Slip-resistant flooring: Choose flooring materials that provide traction and reduce the risk of falls, such as textured tiles or non-slip hardwood.
- Open floor plans: Open layouts create a sense of spaciousness and allow for easy movement throughout the home. They also accommodate mobility aids like wheelchairs and walkers.
- Ample lighting: Good lighting is essential for older adults with diminishing eyesight. Install task lighting in work areas, motion-activated lighting in hallways, and plenty of natural light.
- Non-glare surfaces: Minimize glare from windows and artificial lighting by using matte finishes on countertops and other surfaces.
Safe and Functional Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a high-risk area for falls and accidents. When designing your custom home, pay special attention to the bathroom:
- Walk-in showers with grab bars: Replace tubs with walk-in showers equipped with grab bars for stability and safety.
- Raised toilets: Install toilets at a comfortable height, making it easier for seniors to sit down and stand up.
- Slip-resistant flooring: Use non-slip flooring in the bathroom to reduce the risk of falls, especially when the floor gets wet.
- Handheld showerheads: These allow for adjustable height and ease of use, accommodating individuals with varying mobility levels.
Smart Home Technology
Incorporating smart home technology can greatly enhance the safety and convenience of your custom home for aging in place. Some options to consider include:
- Voice-activated assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo or Google Home can control lighting, thermostats, and security systems with voice commands, reducing the need to manually adjust settings.
- Motion sensors: Install motion-activated lights in key areas, such as hallways and bathrooms, to prevent stumbling in the dark.
- Home monitoring systems: These systems can provide remote access to security cameras, door locks, and temperature controls, allowing caregivers and family members to check in and make adjustments as needed.
Building a custom home with aging in place in mind is an investment in your future comfort and independence. By incorporating accessibility features, universal design principles, safe and functional bathrooms, and smart home technology, you can create a home that not only meets your current needs but also adapts to any future challenges. With the right design and thoughtful planning, your custom home can be a sanctuary where you can age gracefully while enjoying the familiar comforts of home.