Future Flexibility for aging in your home

At a certain point in life, you realize you are in, or are purchasing, your forever home. The one that you are planning on staying in for the long run. For this home, you should consider purchasing a floor plan and layout that will work for you as you age. Or you should consider remodeling your house to be flexible enough to allow you to live safely and independently as you grow older.

Here are a few things to consider when purchasing or remodeling:

• Entrances & Layout

  • No-step entry for at least one threshold to avoid stairs

  • Wider hallways & doors (at least 36” wide) to allow mobility aids or wheelchairs

  • If purchasing, then a ranch layout or single-level floor plan is best

• Great Rooms

  • Having your dining area, tv area, and kitchen all in one area

  • Good lighting throughout: add motion-sensor lighting and rocker-style light switches  (easier to operate) throughout the house to illuminate paths at night.

  • Windows throughout should be wider and lower to the floor to allow for greater visibility to the outdoors.

• Kitchens

  • Open concept kitchens with wide spaces for mobility

  • Pull-out & lower storage: Replace deep lower cabinets with slide-out drawers, and install pull-down shelving in upper cabinets to eliminate risky reaching.

  • Accessible counters: Incorporate varying counter heights or create a seated prep station to accommodate a chair.

  • Faucets & hardware: Swap round doorknobs for lever handles and replace twist faucets with touchless or single-lever models

  • Install ADA compliant appliances, like gas ranges with knobs on the front so you aren’t reaching over hot pots.

• Bathrooms (High Priority)

  • Walk-in/Roll-in showers: Replace step-in tubs with flush-entry showers, including a built-in folding bench and a handheld showerhead.

  • Anti-scald valves: Install devices to regulate maximum water temperature and prevent burns.

  • Grab bars: Mount heavy-duty grab bars in the shower and beside the toilet.

• Other important considerations

  • Smooth flooring surfaces. Remove throw rugs & replace high-pile carpet with smooth, non-slip surfaces like hardwood or luxury vinyl.

  • Smart locks & thermostats: Use keyless entry deadbolts (easy for caregivers or emergency services) and app-controlled thermostats.

  • Medical alerts: Equip the home with voice-activated assistants (like Amazon Alexa or Google Home) and medical alert buttons with fall detection.