How To Age In Your Space

News Flash! We are all getting older, but, as many say, it is better than the alternative. Rather than throw up our hands and let life happen to us, though, we can take actions now that will improve the quality of our lives or the lives of our loved ones into the years to come. I've been in the home remodeling business for almost 40 years, and requests to modify or build spaces for elderly occupants are becoming more and more commonplace.

According to a recent study by the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID), nearly 80 percent of Baby Boomers surveyed plan to stay in their homes to "age in place", which means they need safe, accessible and comfortable homes where they can live independently.

There's a lot to consider when trying to modify or remodel a space for you or your family members.  Are your needs temporary or long-term? Are your primary concerns accessibility and safety? How important is it that your changes coordinate with the overall decor and style or your home?  Also consider that needs may vary among different occupants and are likely to change over time.  Individuals with seemingly similar issues might need totally different solutions today or in the future.

In order to determine what adaptations are needed to make your home ready for independent living as you or your family members age, evaluate your living space to determine what can and can not be implemented.  Older homes with narrow doorways and hallways, homes with lots of level changes, or homes with very small baths can present special challenges.

Prioritize your needs, develop a strategy, and seek out professionals who can help you make it happen on your budget. Working with a  National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist designation (CAPS) can be one place to start.