Aging in Place: Building Accommodation into Your Master Bathroom

The concept of aging in place is not a new one. It’s been a growing trend over the last 20 years. There has, however, been renewed interested and a surge in demand for remodels that include updates to the home that make it easier for the homeowner to remain there long-term. As a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPs), I work with homeowners throughout the region to make sure the changes we make will be ones that make it safer and easier for them to remain in their homes – without compromising aesthetics.

Making the Bathroom Safer

One of the most common rooms that needs to be addressed when remodeling to age in place is the master bathroom. As we age and lose mobility, stepping in and out of a tub becomes not just difficult but often dangerous. In many of our remodels, we replace the tub with a walk-in shower. In others, we maintain the tub but add a separate walk-in shower so that you will have both options now and later. You can see the remodeled bathroom featured in the photo below during the virtual remodeled homes tour this month.

For some homeowners, you may anticipate the need for wider doors and hallways to accommodate a wheelchair, or a shower large enough to roll into or fit a shower chair into. For others, you may find it sufficient to add the walk-in shower and a few logically placed grab bars to keep you safe and steady. Before beginning any project, we’ll talk in detail about what you want and think you’ll need to be able to remain in your home safely and comfortably.
 

Whatever design changes you need to feel safe and comfortable in your home, there are options to make the changes without sacrificing the style and beauty of the space. From handheld shower heads to built-in shower chairs to lowered countertops, we help homeowners design a space they can both thrive in and truly enjoy.
 

Beyond the Bathroom: Making Aging in Place Safe, Convenient, and Lasting

While most of the attention is placed on the bathroom when talking about aging in place, there are other challenges. Consider areas of the home with tight corners, or stairways. Think about the kitchen cupboards and how the tallest cupboards may result in items being out of reach. There are solutions for nearly any obstacle to remaining at home, from lifts that give you access to the second floor to pull out drawers in lower kitchen cupboards that make it easier to access everything without bending over or reaching.

There are so many benefits to aging in place, not the least of which is cost. Being able to enjoy the investment you’ve made in your home, remaining in the neighborhood where you’ve created memories and friendships, and being able to enjoy retirement in comfort and style are only a few of the reasons to consider remodeling and aging in place. Our overall goal is to make living at home safe and comfortable for many years to come – without sacrificing style and beauty.

If you’re feeling like making updates to your home will make it easier for you to remain in in place as you age, please get in touch. We can help guide you through the design process and make decisions about your remodel that factor in what you may need in the future.