Aging in Place – Boomers and Beyond
by Carole Ponzio, CAPS, CGA
Design Solutions!
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) created the “CAPS” designation (Certified Aging In Place Specialist) for industry professionals who successfully completed the CAPS course and testing process.
“Aging in Place” is the new buzz word/phrase for designing a home for safety, independence and comfort – no matter the age or ability of the people living in it. Basically, what that means is that anyone from a small child to an elderly person or a person with mobility challenges could all live in and use the home comfortably.
There are many things that can be done to a residence that would help it conform to these ideals. For accessibility, low thresholds at doors, wider hallways and doorways allow scooters, walkers and wheelchairs easy access (either now or later in life).
In the kitchen, multi level base and wall cabinets allow access for all family members (children, adults or seniors) to participate in meal planning, prep and cooking. Thoughtful location of appliances – under counter microwave ovens that are drawer style – provide easier access and are safer than reaching up for a hot or heavy pot.; raised dishwashers make it easy to load and unload dishes without hurting your back and dishwasher drawers offer the opportunity to wash small loads (for singles or empty nesters) as well as comfort level for wheelchair occupants.
Bathrooms are prime real estate for accessibility aids. Grab bars in the shower and near the commode are a necessity that needn’t be institutional in design. There are many companies that offer decorative grab bars that match their towel bars and accessories. If you feel that it is “too early” to have grab bars installed and you’re building a new home or remodeling your bath, build in the infrastructure (extra plywood in the walls) now to accept grab bar installation later.
Comfort height commodes (about two inches taller than standard) are a real benefit, especially for people with back problems. You can’t imagine the difference they make until you try one! Adding a seat to a shower (whether built-in or a store bought version) and slide bar type shower heads may just “feel good” now, but will make it easier for personal hygiene (with or without help) later on.
A main floor master suite is easier than climbing stairs, but if a second floor suite is on your new home wish list, plan on adding an elevator. Since they’re costly, you may want to design the elevator location now (a second floor closet above a first floor closet – built to elevator specifications) to be retrofitted later when it’s needed.
One of the easiest fixes that’s extremely important for aging eyes is proper lighting. Task lighting for under wall cabinets can help in kitchens, desks and craft areas. Specialty lighting at steps and in hallways can eliminate accidents.
Many of these aging-in-place ideas are just good design concepts for any residence that will surely be appreciated by the people who live there now and for generations to come.
By the way…they also add good resale value to your home, too!
Carole Ponzio CAPS, CGA is the owner/designer of Design Solutions! in Charlotte County. Consultations for remodeling or new construction design for aging in place, accessibility, kitchen, bath or complete remodeling are by appointment. Call 941-629-4100 or visit our website www.designsolutions-fl.com Design Solutions! is a member of the CDBIA, NAHB and FHBA