They’re often called aging-in-place features, but things like curbless showers, nonslip flooring, and wide walkways and doorways can benefit everyone, at any age or ability. “Regardless of aging in place, there is a place for these in day-to-day life, whether it be a teenager on crutches, a family member having had surgery, or active kids. Whenever possible, include aging-in-place and universal design features in every renovation or new build. These features benefit all ages and abilities, and allow you to safely remain in your home for a longer period of time. Creating a home that can adapt also makes it more sustainable.
Wide Walkways and Doorways
Planning is one of the most important steps when incorporating aging-in-place features. Many of these elements require thoughtful design and construction, so it’s wise for homeowners to start early with professionals who understand the nuances. Thinking through how you will really use the space makes all the difference. Having a designer involved really makes a difference.
A professional can help homeowners create a plan that works for their current needs and anticipates future ones. We recommend aging-in-place features when clients are at or near retirement age. Preplanning by adding blocking behind the wall finish, spacious floor planning to allow for wheelchair or walker use.
In fact, spacious layouts are among the most commonly recommended aging-in-place strategies. Wide walkways and doorways — and generous clearances around furniture and fixtures — make it easier for anyone to move through the home comfortably. Installing a continuous flooring material throughout also reduces tripping hazards caused by height or texture changes between rooms.
One Floor, No Steps
Many design and construction professionals agree that the safest homes are single-level and with minimal or no steps. Ideally, there are no steps throughout the house, from the garage to the house, or into showers.
Spacious Layout
Considering a spacious primary suite on the first floor is another key element of an aging-in-place design. It’s important to allow ample room to move comfortably around the bed and furnishings — and to accommodate medical equipment if needed. When planning for long-term aging in place, you’re not solely thinking about access issues. You’re also thinking about potential staffing support issues, how to provide fantastic views should one become bedridden, the ability for individuals to move themselves and the ability for others to be able to move them.”
Curbless showers
One of the most highly recommended features for aging in place is a curbless shower. By eliminating the threshold into the shower area, this design creates a smooth, barrier-free entry that enhances safety and accessibility — especially for those using a wheelchair or walker or who have limited mobility. Invest in curbless showers and grab bars. These additions help to avoid trips and slips and are functional if a wheelchair or walker is needed when they are older.
Grab Bars
Grab bars are an essential component of any bathroom designed for aging in place — but they require proper planning. These safety features can’t be mounted just anywhere. Structural backing must be installed behind the wall to ensure the bar can safely support weight and pressure during use. Even if you don’t need grab bars right away, design and construction professionals strongly recommend adding the necessary backing during a remodel or new build so the space is prepared for future installation.
Modern grab bars are also more stylish than ever. Many double as towel bars or toilet paper holders, blending seamlessly into the space. Some even come as part of coordinated bathroom fixture collections, making it easy to match them with shower heads, faucets and other components. Professionals recommend installing grab bars in the shower — particularly near a bench — and alongside the toilet to enhance safety and offer support where it’s needed most.
Bench
A bench is a crucial aging-in-place feature in a shower, offering a comfortable place to sit if needed. Paired with a nearby handheld sprayer, it allows users to shower while seated with ease and independence.
Creating a curbless shower with double doors specifically meant to accommodate wheelchair access. Feature a handheld shower head on a sliding bar, which doubles as a grab bar. To enhance the experience further, the entire bathroom floor and shower bench can be heated, offering a luxurious touch while maintaining functionality.
Hand Held Sprayer
As mentioned, a handheld sprayer positioned near a bench enables homeowners to sit and rinse off safely and comfortably. It also provides greater functionality for caregivers assisting with bathing. For added convenience and safety, choose models mounted on a slide bar that doubles as a grab bar.
Non-Slip Flooring
Nonslip flooring is a smart choice throughout a home, but it’s especially critical in bathrooms and kitchens, where water exposure is frequent. In bathrooms, designers often recommend mosaic tiles with matte finishes and multiple grout lines, which offer improved traction. Classic pebble tile is also a popular option thanks to its naturally textured surface that helps prevent slips.
No Bend Features
Double-wall ovens and raised kitchen countertops are well worth planning for. Even one inch makes all the difference when raising a countertop. Stacked laundry raised off the floor to allow for an under-laundry drawer to keep supplies.
Extra Lighting
As we age our vision suffers. Night lighting is a great idea under countertops in bathrooms and throughout the hallways.
Easy to grip handles
Grip strength is an important consideration when designing a home for aging in place. Small cabinet knobs can be hard to grasp and pull, and traditional faucet knobs often require awkward twisting motions. That’s why experts recommend choosing faucets with lever handles and cabinet hardware with sturdy pulls.
