Thursday, May 23, 2013

I recently referenced reporting by Nell Bernstein at caring.com, who pointed out two important factors about planning for aging in place. Bernstein says the steps to successful aging in place include learning how to "future-proof" a home -- before a health crisis or other emergency strikes.

Household maintenance is another significant area of concern. Little chores can cause big problems in the form of falls or other mishaps, unless you have on-site assistance at all times.

In the event you don't, the National Association of Home Builders lists many factors homeowners can take into consideration when looking to simplify or reduce maintenance chores.  

Consumer seeking to modify an existing home for aging in place or build a new home to meet long term should consult the NAHB Aging-In-Place Design Checklists which include the following points:

Exterior

• Low-maintenance exterior (vinyl, brick)
• Low-maintenance shrubs and plants
• Deck, patio or balcony surfaces are no more than ½ inch below interior floor level if made of wood

Overall Floor Plan

• Main living on a single story, including full bath
• No steps between rooms/areas on the same level
• 5-foot by 5-foot clear/turn space in living area, kitchen, a bedroom and a bathroom

Entry

• Accessible path of travel to the home
• At least one no-step entry with a cover
• Sensor light at exterior no-step entry focusing on the front-door lock
• There needs to be 32 inches of clear width, which requires a 36-inch door
• Non-slip flooring in foyer
• Entry door sidelight or high/low peep hole viewer; sidelight should provide both privacy and safety.
• Doorbell in accessible location
• Surface to place packages on when opening door

Other Reduced Maintenance/Convenience Features

• Easy to clean surfaces
• Central vacuum
• Built-in pet feeding system
• Built-in recycling system
• Video phones
• Intercom system

View the complete checklist here.

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