Aging in Place means living in one’s home independently regardless of age or ability. Remodeling for long-term changes in accessibility or to address acute disabilities is a growing trend in the kitchen and bath remodeling industry. 80% of remodeling companies involved in aging-in-place remodeling according to a 2016 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) survey. Talk to an expert before you start.
How big is Aging in Place?
- 89% of people 50+ wish to remain in their own homes indefinitely (AARP)
- 80% of remodelers already perform aging-in-place remodeling and 77% have seen an increase in requests for aging in place features in the home from 2013 to 2016. (NAHB).
- Over half of all 55+ households rate their current home a 9 or 10 out of 10 (American Housing Survey).
- The aging population is the number two issue to affect the remodeling industry over the next five years, only behind the availability of skilled labor (NAHB).
- Remodelers report that the most requested aging-in-place features include: grab bars, higher toilets, curbless showers, wider doorways, ramps or lower-thresholds, and task lighting.
Adrienne Petroski
Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)
Schedule an appointment with Adrienne to get started on your home remodel project today.
What should my home contain if I want to age in place?
- A master bedroom and bath on the first floor.
- A low or no-threshold entrance to the home with an overhang.
- Lever-style door handles.
- No change in levels on the main floor.
- Bright lighting in all areas, especially places like stairways.
- A low-maintenance exterior.
- Non-slip flooring at the main entryway.
- An open floor plan, especially in the kitchen/dining area.
What are some techniques that CAPS professionals use?
- Lighting from multiple directions – reduces glare and shadows.
- Contrasting colors for depth perception – use a different color counter (or edging around the counter) than the floor, staining the edge of the stairs a darker color than the rest of the steps.
- Convenience shelf at an entry way to place your grocery bag while getting your keys.