Did you know only 1% of all homes are aging-friendly? This means the other 99% of homes aren’t built with construction in mind that will have us growing old in it.

Whether you’re preparing your home to be your lifelong space or beginning the process of looking into homes for senior citizens, know what to focus on when looking for an elderly friendly floor plan.

Communication is Key

One of the first things to consider when looking for an elderly friendly home is to discuss with the individual who will be moving what they would like to see in their new home. Without their blessing, the home search will be a grueling experience.

While there are key items that need to be considered to make sure the home is safe, you also want them to enjoy spending time there. Whether there are certain features they’d like incorporated, colors on the walls, or a location, be sure to ask for their input before making any important decisions.

Make an Entrance

One of the most important parts of a space that will be the home of an elderly individual is creating an easy to navigate entryway. Focus on homes that have an entryway that they can navigate with ease.

If there aren’t already no-slip grips being utilized in the entryway, you can easily add this type of flooring which makes it safe for seniors. Another important feature is an entrance that has no steps. Steps can be difficult to navigate, especially when there is bad weather.

Combining the no-rise features in the entryway, plus increased lighting can help make the front of the house a place they can navigate with ease. 

Open Concept No Matter the Age

One of the first things home buyers look for in a house is an open concept kitchen. The desire to incorporate this concept into a home doesn’t change with age but becomes increasingly more beneficial. 

Consider who will be using this kitchen and factor in counter height and storage accessibility to make their kitchen a place they want to be. An open concept will make it easy to navigate and usable no matter the age.

Also, invest in easy to use appliances. There are many great options today with easy to read dials and a simple interface that will make spending time in the kitchen an enjoyable experience.

The Bathroom of Their Dreams

If you’re going to invest a lot of money and time in one area of the house, it would have to be the bathroom. Bathrooms don’t come with safety accessible appliances, which is why so many slips and falls happen in this room.

You can utilize safety bars surrounding the bathtub and by the toilet to stop falls before they happen. It’s in these areas you can also place non-slip tiles, similar to the entryway.

Fold-down seats in the shower are a great option to create a safe place for seniors to relax while in the bath. If that isn’t an option, there are other great selections, like an inflatable bath lift, that are both safe and easy to use.

More Time in the Great Outdoors

Creating a space where your loved one can spend quality time outdoors is a great way to ensure they are getting plenty of Vitamin D.

One essential feature is to have a well-groomed walkway without cracks. Also, consider a covered porch in order to protect their sensitive skin from the harsh, direct sunlight.

Homes for Senior Citizens Don’t Have to Be Boring

Homes for senior citizens don’t have to be modeled like a retirement home. You can bring in features to enhance their safety while also bringing in their personality. Not only will your loved one be in a home the encompasses security, but you will also be able to rest at night knowing they are well taken care of.

As you start looking for a senior-friendly home, read more about how to incorporate 2019 home improvement tips into your home search.