By Stacy Sarikanon, Stunning Spaces–Decorating Den Interiors
According to the AARP, 90 percent of adults over the age of 65 want to stay in their current home and community as they age. However, people of all ages are re-evaluating features of their home and considering changes. One of the most important considerations is deciding how long one desires to stay in the home.
Another consideration is the stages of life the home must accommodate. Will there be strollers rolling? Remote cars roaming? Craftwork or homework, or even schooling being done? Working from home? Multi-generations involved? Is aging-in-place a goal?
The term “Forever House” has become popular in recent years. An Internet search on that term will produce a host of results, including the term being discussed on some real estate agencies’ websites.
Having a Forever House can make sense in many ways at many of life’s stages: Young parents. Hosting grandparents with walkers. Entertaining grandchildren. Being prepared for a medical emergency, so your home is a sanctuary, not your enemy.
Design Tips for a Forever House
Let’s start with doors. A front door that is 42-inches wide can accommodate a power wheelchair and sure make it easier to roll in that stroller. For inside doors, 36-inches is a good minimum for width. Sliding or pocket doors can be an advantage through all stages, using lever handles instead of doorknobs for an easier grip.
Smooth floors are better. Try wood or tile with few changes in texture or interruptions. Avoid carpet that will be too thick for rolling on. Also, use area rugs wisely. Think about all stages of life when planning traffic patterns.
Create at least one accessible bathroom with a wide-enough entry and roll-in or walk-in shower. If you use 3/4-inch-thick plywood behind sheetrock or tile walls, this will enable you to place grab bars anywhere, not just on studs.
Re-think the height of certain things. Outlets, for example, could be easier to access for more people if they are 22-inches off the floor rather than the normal 12-inches (depending on your local building code). Lower windows or grand ones can make those outdoor views and light more accessible through a variety of life’s stages.
Don’t forget the motion advantage. Motorized shades are not only convenient and easy to use, they eliminate cords that can be a hazard for toddlers. Motion chairs are not your grandfather’s huge recliner anymore. They come in all sizes with added features like cup holders, more position options and lifts to help one stand up.
If You Have an Open Plan
While open-plan interiors have long been popular, some families desire/require more private ancillary spaces. One answer is the use of stand-alone room dividers like screens or double-sided bookcases to create a bit of privacy.
Overall, the goal is to make your home adaptable to lifestyle changes. Doing ample research or working with a knowledgeable design professional can help you have more confidence in any changes you make, and make them more lasting, more functional and more enjoyable.
