Aging in place is defined as the ability to live in one’s own home safely and independently, regardless of age or ability level. As more and more adults decide to stay in their homes as they age, there are still a few misconceptions about aging-in-place remodeling. A “home remodeler near me”, DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of South Valley, debunks three of the most common ones here.
Common Myths
1. Aging-in-place design only focuses on safety upgrades.
While safety and practicality are the primary concerns when renovating an aging-in-place home, ideally, the design should incorporate more than safety upgrades and create a comfortable space as well. Comfort can mean different things for different individuals. For example, people with arthritis can benefit from lever handles rather than traditional round doorknobs. Handles require significantly less grip strength and make a huge difference in comfort. Another example is touchless faucets in the kitchen and bathroom.
2. Aging-in-place homes look like nursing homes.
Not at all! On the market today, there are a lot of aging-in-place features that offer as much style as function. Featuring a touch of elegance and sophistication, recessed lights are an excellent addition to the family room, kitchen and bathroom. Experimenting with paint colors on walls is another way your mobility remodeling contractor can spruce up your aging-in-place home. As eyesight deteriorates with age, depth of perception weakens and it becomes challenging to identify contrast. High-contrast colors like blue and orange can help older family members assess distance and navigate the house to minimize the risks for accidents.
3. Converting a traditional home to an aging-in-place home requires a full remodel.
In a conventional home, there are many features that you can update to meet the safety and comfort needs of an aging individual without engaging in a full remodel. If you’re renovating a room to make it more conducive to aging in place, the bathroom is the first area you should consider. Specific modifications that maximize safety include removing the tub and installing a zero-threshold shower. It is also important to add non-slip mats or anti-skid tiles to make the shower space less prone to slips and falls. Grab bars are another must-have as this feature helps maintain balance.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of South Valley specializes in making accessible modifications to homes across the South Valley area. Give our certified team a call at (801) 410-0909 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment or request a free kitchen or bathroom quote. We serve clients in Herriman, Riverton, Sandy, Draper, South Jordan and many other communities.
