The word “retirement” conjures up visions of seniors living it up in Florida. But the fact is that 70% of senior Americans spend the rest of their lives in the same place they were when they turned 65.
If you’re planning for the future, think carefully about your home. How easy will it be to climb multiple staircases? Could you open doors and turn knobs? Will you be able to reach the necessary things in your kitchen?
If the answers to these questions are mostly “no,” you should consider remodeling your house with easy living in mind– and it’s better to make these renovations before you need them. Universal design takes into account the needs of all of a home’s occupants. Below are some principals that home remodelers consider.
EXTERIOR
At least one entrance to the house should be “barrier free.” Not only does this mean ramps but also paying attention to curbs or doorframes that might trip someone up. Outside lighting should be good.
INTERIOR
The best easy living design puts all the rooms you need – kitchen, living room, bedroom, bath- room, laundry room—on one level. Or consider installing an elevator. You also need wider corridors and doorways. Floors should be made of non-slip materials.
KITCHEN
A kitchen remodeling project should plan to lower the stove, cabinets, and counters to bring them within reach of someone seated. You should have floor space for maneuverability. Pull- out or pull-down fixtures in cabinets also help.
BATHROOM
A kitchen remodeling project should plan to lower the stove, cabinets, and counters to bring them within reach of someone seated. You should have floor space for maneuverability. Pull- out or pull-down fixtures in cabinets also help.
