Designing A Home to Grow with You: Features to Add to Your Aging-In-Place Home

A home is more than four walls and a roof over your head. It is your sanctuary to retreat to after a long day, a place to gather family and loved ones for celebrations, and your space to grow throughout the years. Your home needs to last a lifetime and that is why we are dedicated to ensuring you have a space that provides you with everything you need through all stages of life. 

At MCG we are committed to aging-in-place design with new build and remodel designs for the future. Many of our designers have the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) certification that equips our designers with the knowledge to create spaces that support you and your independence, safety, and comfort at any age. But what are some smart aging-in-place features that ensure your home is accessible without sacrificing aesthetics and function? 

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CAPS Design Features for a Safer Home

No matter your age, your home can benefit from aging-in-place designs that “grow” with you. These features are designed to make life easier for everyone, from children to great-grandparents, and can be installed throughout the home including the bedroom, bathroom, entryway, and backyard. Here are some design inspirations that you can incorporate into your next build or remodel. 

A More Comfortable Bedroom

The bedroom is your place to recharge and peacefully retreat to at the end of the day. An aging-in-place home should have at least one primary bedroom on the ground level to reduce the need for lifts or climbing stairs as one ages. Ideally the room should be large enough with clear walking paths around the bed, with no tripping hazards or clutter. A smooth hardwood and slip resistant floor (avoiding area rugs if possible) reduces the risk of falls. 

In the closet, install a system of rods and shelves that can be easily modified throughout the years. Open and modular shelving units can make clothing and shoes more accessible by reducing bending and overhead reaching. Also consider installing smart lighting in the bedroom including motion-activated nightlights, easy light switches, and noise or voice controlled overhead lighting. 

A Safer and More Accessible Bathroom

Bathrooms are one of the most common areas for falls or injuries in the home. Slippery surfaces such as floors and walls can be a hazard, but the right design features can make them safer and more accessible. One way to achieve this is with a zero-threshold shower, eliminating the need to step in and out of a tub. Coupled with stylish grab bars which can be integrated seamlessly into the design, these modifications ensure safety and functionality. 

Additional design solutions include custom-height toilets, non-slip flooring, handheld showerheads, and accessible faucet handles. At MCG, we specialize in renovating your outdated bathroom into a luxurious spa with aging-in-place features incorporated in, to build your ideal bathroom. 

A Kitchen for The Entire Family

The kitchen is a natural gathering place in any home, so it is important that it is accessible and also functional for the entire family. A popular addition is to add multi-level countertops at various heights, perfect for accommodating people of different heights and needs. Installing lower cabinets or switching to pull-out drawers or pull-down shelves is another way to make storing and accessing pantry items and dishware easier. Upgrading to touch-activated appliances and changing cabinet pulls make it easier to operate and utilize the space. 

Additions for The Entire Home

Aging-in-place designs should be incorporated throughout the entire home. Reduce the risk of falling by installing no-step entries into the home and between rooms in the house. Also consider widening doorways to accommodate mobility aids such as walkers and wheelchairs and swap out traditional door handles for lever-style handles which are easier to operate. 

Ensure that the flooring is smooth from room to room and that carpets or rugs are properly secured to lessen trip hazards. Incorporate smart lighting solutions with motion or voice-activated lights, dimmers, and switches, which are easier to use, especially in the dark. We have plenty of design options to incorporate into your redesign, no matter if you are seeking a modern look or more of a coastal feel. 

Do Not Forget the Outdoors

While the inside of the home is important, simple changes can be added to ensure your aging-in-place home is accessible outdoors. Install a cover over your entryway and porch to protect you and your home from damage from the elements. If your home currently has steps for entry, add sloped walkways or a ramp not only for better accessibility for wheelchairs and walkers, but also for young children who may still be a little unsteady on their feet.

Easy additions such as fun outdoor lighting to illuminate walkways at night and raised beds for gardening allow your home to be functional for decades to come.

Renovating your current home or building a new one with aging-in-place solutions does not mean that you need to compromise on your style preferences. Whether you are looking for a contemporary or high-end coastal living feel for your Amelia Island home, our MCG Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists are able to collaborate with you to create the perfect home for your needs. With MCG, you can be confident that your home will grow with you for generations. Contact MCG today to get started today!