Renovations for Aging in Place
Rhonda Heaslip | 21 May, 2008

Our housing needs change as our health and lives change. More and more people are looking to a less expensive and more independent alternative to nursing homes. As I write this article I am being made aware of a niche in our market that needs more attention: Renovations on our current homes so that we can "age in place."

Many places in the United States have Certified Aging In Place Specialists or "CAPS" who cater to exactly this clientele and do it extremely well. They employ many design strategies for modifying current residences to allow the owners to stay put. For instance, multi-level homes need not have their footprint changed if an elevator is put in. Nanaimo has many multi-level view homes where this could be done. Although pricey, compared to the long term cost of nursing home care, it may not seem so expensive. When looking at the quiet enjoyment of retained independence in their own home; many people choose the elevator. In a very high end home this could actually be a great selling feature.

Another design technique used is two different heights of sinks and counter tops in the kitchen; dual purpose for a live-in assistant and the owner(s). Knee space under the lower countertops to allow working from a seated position would be good, too. Single lever faucets in the kitchen bath and laundry rooms are the way to go for greater control of temperature and flow.

In the bathroom: higher toilets, better lighting, contrasting colours and grab handles (in easy reach of toilet, sink and tub) can be tastefully and attractively done. Non-slip flooring in the bathroom, please!

Out front: How about larger doorframes, keyless entry and maybe an outrageously attractive ramp entry to the home? (Yes, they really CAN be attractively designed!)

Security grills at windows vulnerable to forced entry can also be installed.

There are also the simple and straight-forward changes such as repairing holes or uneven joints in walkways that could be a tripping hazard, replace steep slopes with low rise steps or a low slope ramp. Light fixtures/ floodlights should have easily accessible switches to illuminate entrances, steps and walkways. Repair all unsafe stair handrails AND install handrails on both sides of the stairs. Change out worn or loose stair coverings and mark the edges of the stairs with a permanent contrasting stripe of colour.

Reduce or eliminate high thresholds at room entrances, and use a contrasting colour or texture wherever there is a change in the floor level.

There is not enough room in this article to cover it all but the long and short of it is that for the next 20 years or so the baby boomers will continue to turn 60 and be looking for a new and better way to live as they age. "Aging in Place" will quite possibly become the new norm....so what are you waiting for, you contractors and designers? Here is a niche that needs your skills now. 

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