As we age, our needs change and so do our living spaces. The idea of aging in place has gained popularity in recent years as more and more people choose to remain in their homes as they grow older. But what does it mean to design for aging in place? How can we create homes that meet our changing needs without sacrificing style or comfort?
In this article, we’ll explore the concept of design for aging in place and offer practical tips for creating a home that will support you as you age gracefully.
As you age, everyday tasks like using the bathroom can become more challenging. For DreamMaker designers, we believe it’s important to design a bathroom that’s safe and accessible for older adults. Here are some tips for creating an aging-in-place friendly bathroom:
Install grab bars
Installing grab bars near the toilet and in the shower can help prevent slips and falls.
As you age, your home may require modifications to ensure your safety and independence.
Grab bars need not be purely functional. With a little creativity, they can be seamlessly integrated into a bathroom’s design. DreamMaker designers consider sleek stainless-steel bars with a modern, minimalist look that complements a contemporary bathroom. We could also opt for elegantly curved bars that mimic the lines of traditional fixtures.
By incorporating grab bars into your bathroom design, we don’t only increase your safety and accessibility but also elevate the aesthetics of your bathroom space. Plus, with various options on the market, we can help you find a style that suits your taste and needs.
Don’t wait until an accident happens to take action. Our DreamMaker designers can install grab bars in your bathroom anytime so that you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you can age in place with confidence.
Choose a walk-in shower
A walk-in shower with a built-in bench can make it easier to shower without the risk of tripping over a high threshold.
As you age, the need for a safe and functional bathroom becomes increasingly important. One of the best ways to achieve this is by choosing a walk-in shower. Not only does it provide easy access if you have mobility issues, but it also offers a modern and stylish look to your bathroom.
When designing a bathroom for aging in place, DreamMaker designers believe it’s crucial to consider the individual’s unique needs. A walk-in shower eliminates the need to step over a high tub wall, reducing the risk of falls and providing a more comfortable experience. It also allows for the easy installation of grab bars, which can provide additional support and stability.
In addition to its practical benefits, a walk-in shower can also add a touch of luxury to your bathroom. With options like rainfall showerheads, hand-held body sprays, built-in seating, and customizable lighting, we can help you create a spa-like experience in the comfort of your own home.
When selecting materials for your walk-in shower, DreamMaker designers believe it’s important to choose options that are slip-resistant and easy to clean. This will reduce the risk of accidents and make maintenance a breeze. Additionally, we consider adding features like a handheld showerhead, which can make it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Whether you’re considering designing a bathroom for yourself or a loved one, choosing a walk-in shower is a smart and stylish choice.
Consider a comfort-height toilet
A toilet that’s slightly higher than standard can make it easier for older adults to sit and stand.
As you age, the things that once seemed simple become more difficult. The traditional toilet height can be challenging for those with limited mobility or joint pain. That’s where the comfort-height toilet comes in.
Designed to be taller than the standard toilet, the comfort-height toilet makes sitting down and standing up easier if you struggle with mobility. This simple change can make all the difference in allowing you to age in place, in the comfort of your home.
But don’t let the name fool you – comfort-height toilets aren’t just for seniors. They can benefit anyone who experiences discomfort while using a standard-height toilet. So why not consider upgrading your bathroom to a comfort-height toilet today? Your future self will thank you.
Consider non-slip flooring
Slip-resistant flooring can help prevent falls in the bathroom. As you age, it’s important to consider the safety and accessibility of your home.
One of the most important design considerations for an aging-in-place bathroom is non-slipping flooring. Slippery surfaces can be incredibly dangerous, especially for those with limited mobility or balance issues. There are many options for non-slipping flooring, including vinyl, cork, and even porcelain tiles with a non-slip finish. Not only will this type of flooring reduce the risk of falls, but it can also add a stylish touch to your bathroom.
When DreamMaker designers are choosing non-slipping flooring, we consider the texture and grip. We look for flooring that has a textured surface or raised patterns that can provide additional grip. Additionally, we ensure the flooring is easy to clean and maintain.
With non-slipping flooring and other thoughtful design elements, DreamMaker designers will ensure that your bathroom remains a functional and enjoyable part of your home for years to come.
Improve lighting
Good lighting is essential in any bathroom, but it’s especially important for older adults who may have vision problems. When DreamMaker designers are remodeling a bathroom for aging in place, we consider adding additional lighting or installing brighter bulbs.
One way to improve lighting is to add more natural light. This can be achieved by installing larger windows or skylights. If natural light is not an option, we consider adding more light fixtures. We can place lights above the sink, shower, and toilet to provide more illumination in the necessary areas.
Also, the designers at DreamMaker could use LED lights. Not only are they energy-efficient, but they also provide better lighting than traditional bulbs. LED lights can also last longer, which means less time spent changing bulbs.
In addition to improving the lighting, we believe it is important to ensure that the bathroom is easy to navigate.
DreamMaker designers can remodel into both a safe place and a relaxing sanctuary if you wish to age in place gracefully.
Install lever-style faucets
Lever-style faucets are easier to use than traditional knobs, which can be difficult for older adults with arthritis or other mobility issues.
As you age, it’s important to make changes to your living spaces that accommodate your changing needs.
One element that can add both style and functionality to an aging-in-place bathroom is lever-style faucets. These faucets are visually appealing and provide a non-slip grip that can be especially helpful for those with arthritis or other mobility issues.
When selecting lever-style faucets for an aging-in-place bathroom, DreamMaker designers believe it’s important to consider the placement and height of the faucet to ensure its easily accessible. Additionally, choosing a faucet with a single lever can make it easier to control water temperature and flow.
Incorporating lever-style faucets into an aging-in-place bathroom not only provides practical benefits but also adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to the space. With the right design choices, creating a beautiful and functional bathroom is within reach for all ages and abilities.
By incorporating these design elements into your bathroom, you can create a safe and functional space that’s perfect for aging in place. Don’t wait until it’s too late to make your bathroom accessible- start planning your remodel today!
Designing a bathroom for aging in place requires thoughtful consideration and attention to detail. From installing grab bars to choosing slip-resistant flooring, every element of the bathroom should be selected with safety and accessibility in mind. But beyond functionality, a well-designed bathroom can also bring peace of mind and a sense of independence to seniors who want to age in place. By creating a space that is both beautiful and practical, DreamMaker can help you maintain your dignity and quality of life as you grow older.
