“Aging in Place” is one of the trends to watch in the coming decade for the housing industry. There are 76 million baby boomers that are going to be facing retirement, and many of them do not want to go to the retirement home. Because of this, many of the homes that they love and want to finish out their final days in are not suited for senior living.

Modifying your home for aging in place can take many forms. Senior Resource.com has an excellent primer on many of the modifications that can be made for your house to allow you to age in place happily. This list is very comprehensive and the expectations are not that all of the steps be performed, but it does provide a good reference point.

Here are some examples of general modification to a home for aging in place:

Adapt lower floor of home for possible one level living

Increased incandescent general and specific task lighting

Easy garage or parking access

At least one entry is without steps

Doorways 36″ wide with off-set hinges on doors

Levered door handles instead of knobs

Electrical outlets at 18 inches instead of 12

Easy to open or lock patio doors and screens

Light switches at 42″ instead of 48

Adjustable controls on light switches

Luminous switches in bedrooms, baths and hallways

There are many other factors that go into providing for seniors who want to age in place. Finding personal care assistants, providing transportation, and creating social opportunities are all important factors that should be addressed in the process.

If you are looking to have your home remodeled to allow aging in place, the National Association of Home Builders has a certification available. It is an interesting read as it shows what criteria is needed to be certified.

To find a Certified Age in Place Specialist, click here for the directory.

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