Remodeling Benefits to Age in Place

Nobody likes to think of themselves as "old." But the fact is that the aging process begins from the moment we are born. Ugh, I know, I don't wanna go there. I'm kicking and fighting every day.

As I said in my last blog, there are numerous benefits surrounding design integrating mobility for all from the very beginning of construction. Besides the convenience and safety afforded to the disabled, the process of integrating universal design preserves a home's usefulness for all people. It is forward-thinking to use aging-in-place practices in all homes.

Take the curbless shower. I have always loved a curbless shower and just recently discovered its accessibility benefits. They are UNIVERSAL. Everyone can enjoy a curbless shower. It is actually the latest European trend. Oh, and I will never have or design a shower without a shower seat. It is a necessity for all, including me!

It takes some thought to design a home to be barrier free for all but it can be accomplished if the right rules are followed. The ADA, the NKBA, National Kitchen and Bath Association, and many other organizations provide guidelines for barrier-free living. Architects and designers are all aware of these guidelines but only use them to their full potential when forced to facilitate universal design. I say implement these strategies in all homes, thereby increasing the likelihood of all people to have the ability to remain in their homes long after their bodies begin the process of aging(groan). It is a fact of life nobody wants to face but it is inevitable.

"Boomers are looking for homes that will serve them well today and meet their needs in the future. Many see the challenges that their parents and older relatives are facing, and they want to avoid those as much as possible. They are also thinking about making the most of their later years. Now is the time to show them how good design can give them the best of both worlds." From the ASID Icon, Designs for Senior Living, November/December 2007