Designing a home that accommodates the changing needs of its occupants as they age is becoming an essential consideration for many households. The perfect aging-in-place floor plan is a personalized and flexible design that combines various elements tailored to suit individuals’ lifestyle and abilities. In today’s post, Design Build Remodeling Group of Maryland shares tips on how to ensure long-term comfort, safety and independence in your home.
First Floor Living
A good aging-in-place floor plan should include all essential living spaces on a single level. This eliminates the need for stairs which can become a challenge with age. One of the first things you may need to do is move the main bedroom suite to the first floor, which has easy accessibility features like no-step entries and ramps. If your building plans have upper stories, consider having a home elevator installed, or at least leave space for it for a future remodel.
Open Floor Plan and Wide Doorways
An open floor plan is not just a design trend; it is a practical solution for aging in place. The unobstructed movement between the kitchen, dining and living areas fosters an environment that is both adaptable for assistive devices. It is also conducive to social interaction, which is vital for a fulfilling life. Wide doorways and the absence of raised thresholds further facilitate ease of movement and ensure every accessibility in every part of the home.
Safety Features in Kitchens and Bathrooms
The kitchen and bathrooms should be carefully designed to ensure safety. Kitchen features like convenient storage locations, easy access to appliances, and a manageable island can make a significant difference. Bathrooms benefit from walk-in showers with zero-clearance entries and a built-in bench. Both features add functionality while keeping fall risks to a minimum. Other features you may want to consider include custom lighting plans and non-slip flooring.
Ready to create the perfect age-in-place home? Give our team at Design Build Remodeling Group of Maryland a call at (443) 300-2268 to get started. You can also fill out our online form to schedule a consultation. We serve communities in Bethesda, MD.
