How Do You Design a Home for Aging?

Designing a home for aging individuals can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering the needs of an aging individual and anticipating possible future changes in mobility and health, you can design a home that is both accessible and comfortable.

Firstly, start by considering the physical layout of your home. Making sure that doorways are wide enough for wheelchair access, and that hallways are spacious enough for maneuverability are key considerations for an aging individual.

If possible, consider adding some grab bars in the bathroom or bedroom to increase safety.

In addition to the physical layout of the home, making sure that appliances and furniture are user-friendly is important as well. Consider replacing traditional doorknobs with levers or handles that require less strength to open.

Choose furniture that is easy to get in and out of, such as chairs with armrests or adjustable beds.

Finally, think about the lighting in your home. As people age their vision may begin to decline so it’s important to ensure there is adequate lighting throughout the house. Make sure there are no shadows on pathways or stairs and consider adding nightlights near the bedside and bathrooms.

Conclusion:

Designing a home for an aging individual can seem like a daunting task but it doesn’t have to be if you consider their needs ahead of time. By ensuring that doorways are wide enough for wheelchair access, furniture is user-friendly, and lighting is adequate throughout your home, you can create an environment that is safe and comfortable for an aging individual.