What You Need To Know
Recent studies show that only a little over 1% of homes in the United States are conducive to aging in place, yet more than 75% of older Americans want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. Although home modifications to adapt for changing needs may seem a bit overwhelming, there are guidelines that may help simplify the process and their are people who can help. This guide to aging in place home design will help you - whether you're looking to build a new custom home or make modifications to the one you live in. The goal is to have a home that can safely accommodate you and your family for as long as possible.
Understand Age-In-Place
Age-In-Place design was developed so older individuals would be able to stay in the homes because they've been built to adapt to their changing needs. It allows for older adults to remain at home rather than moving to a senior living community. Today, we may feel great climbing stairs, stepping into bath tubs or reaching high for storage, but in 10 or 20 years, aging may cause:
Balance issues
Effected vision
Reduced hearing
Decreased mobility
Loss of strength or endurance
These issues could negatively impact our ability to do tasks that were so easy for us previously. What if we could no longer navigate our home, take a shower or cook in our kitchen? Age in place design anticipates these problems by adapting your home to account for and support any future limitations.
What Are the Benefits of Age in Place renovations?
Unlike some other options, staying at home can provide you with a sense of independence and autonomy. Ultimately, the goal of age in place design is to maintain or improve your quality of life. Remaining in a familiar setting near friends and neighbors positively impacts your health and happiness. Although adapting your home may be a costly undertaking, in many cases, the cost is lower than the costs associated with assisted living communities, where you would essentially be living on their terms instead of your own.
Who Should Consider Age in Place?
It is essential to create a comprehensive plan that addresses potential issues that might occur if you stay in your existing home. If you satisfy the following criteria, you might be a good candidate for age in place adaptations to your home:
Your home is accessible or can be made accessible
You have a strong support system of friends, family, and doctors
You’re a proactive person who likes making your own decisions
You have access to transportation, whether private or public
You’re in relatively good health and are comfortable living on your own
You have an experienced, trustworthy source (like Longevity Home Solutions) to consult with you and guide you through the process
Adaptability seems to be the key to dealing with life's challenges. Many people today face changes in their health, lifestyle and family and find it necessary to adapt their home to those changes. Aging parents, working from home, children, a changed in someone's health can cause a person to wonder how they will function in their existing home. Longevity Home Solutions will help you find ways to adapt to changes your home requires from you or your family members. Contact us today!