senior remodeling

The goal of any successful CAPS project should be to blend the aging in place features with a home’s style, in as seamless a manner as possible. Customers will more readily accept suggestions for safety improvements if they do not detract from the appearance of the home or have an “institutional” look. Accessibility product manufacturers are continually developing new products that match residential plumbing and hardware styles in all the popular finishes. In addition, fortunately, many of the design goals of aging in place are consistent with the customer’s desires for more open areas, with less formal separation of rooms and a brighter, more airy feeling.

Accessibility needs, such as wider hallways, deeper roll-in closets with turnarounds, generous door openings, lever door handles, and easy to access storage areas, will not only meet with customer approval but will add to the resale value and appeal of the property. When viewed as a real improvement to the home as well as a safer, more accessible feature, the remodel provides maximum return for the customer’s investment.

Bathroom remodel:

The National Safety Council states that annually over 200,000 U.S. citizens are injured in their baths.

• minimum of 32” doorways preferably 36”, wheelchair access
• minimum of 18” maneuvering space to the latch side of door
• minimum of 18” and maximum of 48” for switches and outlets
• installing grab bars around toilet and bath/shower area
• changing of faucets to lever handles
• curb less shower or gated tub
• vanity height adjusted to user
• plumbing for shower or tub at easy reach

Kitchen remodel:

• counter heights of 36” and 30” for all users
• minimum of 42” of floor space between cabinets
• side-by-side refrigerator is optimal
• counter space on each side of refrigerator to be 24”
  shelves that slide out or pull down
• roll-out shelving in pantry
• an area of 36”x 48” floor space around all major appliances
• vinyl, cork or ceramic tile for flooring

Whole house remodel:

• step elimination at front door if possible
• minimum turn radius of 60” at front door
• handrails at front entrance
• ramp with correct slope and width using non-slip surface
• windows should provide visibility from seated position
• easy operation (locking/unlocking) of windows
• walk-in or walk-up closets
• laundry room entrance at least 36”
• minimum turn radius of 60” in laundry room
• HVAC system controls are easy to read, understand and access
• good lighting by increasing wattage, lighting for critical areas, use of night lights, and techniques for reducing glare
• monitored security system
• use non-slip surfaces for driveways/garage
• storage areas to be in the “optimal reach zone” between 20” and 44” above the floor
• use drawers instead of cupboards where possible
• ]install lever handles throughout the house
• install a shelf outside the front door
• have front door covered if possible