Are you also among those people who are in love with the idea of a “forever home”? It is more than just a dream. It’s a plan. As we age, our needs, routines, and physical capabilities evolve, and so should the spaces we live in. That’s why aging in place is a practical concept that most U.S. citizens are considering. It is centered on the concept of living independently and comfortably in your own home for as long as possible. There is no doubt that the fact has become an essential consideration in custom home design.
If you’re thinking about building a custom home, incorporating aging-in-place features is a must. Try to think and rethink from the beginning. It ensures that your home will serve you well for decades, even as your lifestyle changes. Here’s what you need to know about building a forever home designed for comfort, safety, and adaptability.
What Is Aging in Place?
Aging in place refers to the process of staying in your own house, as opposed to relocating to an aged care or senior community when you become old. The word has a wider context with a focus on living in autonomy, but with security, availability, and comfort. It’s not just a trend. You’d better think of it as a movement that is driven by pragmatic thinking. The other facts are emotional attachment to home and the increasing costs of institutional care.
However, aging in place does not occur in one day or an accident. As such, it involves considered design decisions and upgrades. You will also have to redefine the way your home works sometimes.
Why Build a Forever Home?
It has a lot of advantages to building or renovating your house with a long-term dwelling:
Cost Savings: Nursing homes or assisted living facilities are costly and can cost thousands per month. This can save a lot in the long run by investing in your home.
Familiarity: Being in a familiar environment will reduce stress and even aid in cognitive well-being.
Control and Independence: You are the rule maker in your own home, which includes what you are eating and how you are spending your day.
Emotional Wellbeing: Memories are in your home. It can also be a place to stay and be in close company with friends, neighbors, and your community.
The Major Characteristics of a Forever Home
Therefore, the aging-in-place factors must be taken into consideration when you are planning to build your custom home. You ought to design a house that will be functional decades later. The important ones that you need to remember are the following:
Single-Level Living
In your customization of your home, in accordance with the aging-in-place factor, you must focus on the reduction of stair usage. A single-level floor plan should be preferred. It makes it less likely to fall and more accessible. Also, strive to have a design with all the key areas on a single level, such as the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and laundry.
Wide Doorways and Hallways
The majority of the elderly individuals will need wheelchairs or walkers to get around in and out. These are larger and difficult to manoeuvre through the doorways. Target doorways should be at least 36 inches wide, and corridors. These broad spaces permit easy mobility.
Zero-Step Entry
One such option is a no-step entryway. It offers a good alternative to people with mobility concerns, particularly when you are planning your own home with consideration to your aging factors. Since it will be a step-free way, you can reach your main door step easily. These doorways are also convenient for transporting groceries, luggage, and trolleys.
Non-Slip Flooring
Older people tend to experience minor to major injuries as a result of slips and falls. So, during the creation of your home, make sure to use non-slippery materials. It is particularly important in high-traffic zones such as the kitchen and bathroom. In addition, do not use throw rugs or any other item that can be bunched easily or moved.
Easily Lefthandled and Minimal-effort Fixtures
Old-fashioned round doorknobs might be hard to hold in arthritic hands. Examples of small upgrades include lever-type handles, touchless faucets, and rocker light switches. These enhancements are a big difference.
Accessible Bathroom Design
An anciently prepared bathroom could consist of:
A bench-mounted, roll-in, or walk-in shower.
Grab bars around the toilet and in the shower.
A comfort-height toilet
a knee-cleared vanity underneath
Open Concept Layouts
Open concept layouts are not only fashionable. These flooring designs provide less complicated navigation and more flexibility in laying out the furniture. Since there are not many walls and more open space, no one can stop you from moving around the house.
Smart Home Technology
The use of modern technology renders aging in place safe and convenient. The typical smarter systems for your own custom home are:
Voice-controlled lighting
Video doorbells
Smart thermostats
Medication reminders
Fall-detection system
These provide tranquility and freedom.
Proper Lighting
The older you become, the weaker you see. So, the lighting that will last you a long time is what you should take into account when planning the design of your dream home. A combination of ambient lights, task lights, and natural lights is one of the thoughtful lighting options. Include nightlights in corridors and bathrooms to eliminate the need for nightfall.
Take into account Proximity to Services
Think about constructing your forever home in an area that has grocery stores, medical offices, means of transportation, and social activities. These render it simpler to remain autonomous and active.
Conclusion
Aging in place is a very smart choice to have in mind when creating your forever home. Comfort, safety, and independence are aspects that should take priority. It is important to think about a well-thought-out house as our physical needs are changing with time. They can evolve with us and reduce the number of renovations in the future, as well as enjoy maximum peace of mind. Zero-step entries to smart home technologies and open layouts are all elements that contribute to long-term well-being.
Above all, aging in place will give you the chance to stay emotionally connected, maintain everyday routines, and stay in touch with the community you know. It is crucial to plan the future, whether you are constructing a new facility or refurbishing a current facility. It will aid you in living comfortably. It is not only about staying at home but also about flourishing in the environment you are fond of. Get in touch with us at Signtaure Homes to have the useful plans to construct your future-ready house! We will send you some free quotes on various aging-in-place home plans.
FAQs
Why should I consider aging-in-place features now?
Planning early ensures your home remains functional and safe as your needs evolve, avoiding costly renovations later.
What is the most important feature for aging in place?
Single-level living is often the most critical feature. It minimizes fall risk and improves accessibility for all mobility levels.
Can smart home technology help with aging in place?
Yes, devices like voice assistants, smart lighting, and fall detection systems improve safety, convenience, and peace of mind.
Are aging-in-place features only for seniors?
Not at all. Aging in place features can be useful for all. These features provide accessibility, safety, and convenience for families and guests. It also fulfills your future needs.