Most people say they hope to spend their retirement years right where they are, living out a full and independent existence in their own homes. Most of their dwellings, however, are not equipped to meet the needs of aging seniors.
Therefore, homeowners would be wise to incorporate senior-friendly designs into their residences now - such as during a remodeling or renovation project - to prepare them for elderly life down the road.
Widening doorways and halls, for example, will accommodate a wheelchair that may be needed later in life. Other recommended changes include installing kitchen appliances at such a level to avoid bending too low or reaching too high; and also replacing standard doorknobs, cabinet handles, and faucets with easy-to-grip and easy-to-turn models designed specifically for older people.
Finally, even if homeowners do not feel ready to add such features as benches and grab bars in the bathtub, they still can take steps that will make adding these accessories later a snap. These steps can include reinforcing the walls now as opposed to later.
"Home Redesigns for Retirement Years," CBSMarketWatch.com (10/15/03); Loeb, Marshall, January, Brendan.
Widening doorways and halls, for example, will accommodate a wheelchair that may be needed later in life. Other recommended changes include installing kitchen appliances at such a level to avoid bending too low or reaching too high; and also replacing standard doorknobs, cabinet handles, and faucets with easy-to-grip and easy-to-turn models designed specifically for older people.
Finally, even if homeowners do not feel ready to add such features as benches and grab bars in the bathtub, they still can take steps that will make adding these accessories later a snap. These steps can include reinforcing the walls now as opposed to later.
"Home Redesigns for Retirement Years," CBSMarketWatch.com (10/15/03); Loeb, Marshall, January, Brendan.