{"id":10036,"date":"2024-05-28T17:44:44","date_gmt":"2024-05-29T00:44:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.squaredealremodel.com\/?p=10036"},"modified":"2024-07-29T23:43:46","modified_gmt":"2024-07-30T06:43:46","slug":"remodeling-for-retirement","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.squaredealremodel.com\/2014site\/remodeling-for-retirement\/","title":{"rendered":"Remodeling for Retirement"},"content":{"rendered":"

For many retired Baby Boomers, the search is on for homes, condos or apartments that best deliver safe and comfortable living spaces suited for preserving independence as they age. These homes will likely have a single level, have recently been remodeled and include the latest in accessibility design features.\u00a0 Unfortunately, a home like this doesn\u2019t always turn up in a desirable neighborhood.\u00a0 So, alternatives to consider are properties that are somewhat distressed but show promise or retrofit a current residence.\u00a0 Both options may require significant home renovations which will need careful thought and planning for an ideal \u201caging in place\u201d home.\u00a0 Here is some useful information should you be contemplating such a remodel.<\/span><\/p>\n

Kitchens<\/b><\/h2>\n

Space<\/span><\/h3>\n

Your aging-in-place kitchen will benefit from all the space your home can support. Having adequate space to move around now and in the future will help keep daily life more manageable. You will want to think about how you navigate your kitchen and how much room there is when appliances or cabinets are open.\u00a0 For example, if you\u2019ve been planning to incorporate an island into your kitchen, perhaps make it mobile. In the short term, adding wheels to an island will make entertaining easy and fun.\u00a0 And as you age, you will appreciate being able to move the island to help make room should mobility aids be necessary in the future.<\/span><\/p>\n

Appliances<\/span><\/h3>\n

When choosing your appliances, again think about functional mobility. Pay attention to the weight of appliance doors.\u00a0 What it is like to open and close them? The biggest appliance decision you\u2019ll make is a refrigerator. When shopping, open, close, and pretend to put groceries in it. Will you be able to bend down to access a freezer or be able to reach the high shelves in a side by side?\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For cooking, wall ovens provide easy access. These units are raised a bit, so you won\u2019t have any issues leaning over to retrieve your Thanksgiving turkey. \u00a0 A great stove top option is an\u00a0<\/span>induction unit<\/span>.\u00a0 It\u00a0will be easier, and safer to use, than a typical coil or gas range. Induction stoves are also more energy-efficient and cook food faster than gas or standard electric models.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Sinks<\/span><\/h3>\n

The sink area should also be a focus of consideration.\u00a0People probably spend more time at the kitchen sink than any other place in the kitchen.\u00a0 It\u2019s important to think about how deep your sink will sit. You don\u2019t want it to be too far back, making it harder to reach.\u00a0 A sunken sink may be more easily accessible.\u00a0 And don\u2019t forget the faucet. Installing a faucet with lever handles will make it easier to use.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bathrooms<\/b><\/h2>\n

Aging-in-place\u00a0bathroom design is essential in maintaining an accessible space in spite of any potential physical limitations. It\u2019s also imperative for safety as there are so many wet hazards in a bathroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

Aging-in-Place Shower & Tub Tips<\/span><\/h3>\n

Many accidents occur in the tub.\u00a0 It\u2019s a good idea to address this spot first. Consider the following aging-in-place\u00a0bathroom designs:<\/span><\/p>\n