From the NAHB:
“More aging homeowners (age 55 and older) are deciding to Age-In-Place, according to a survey from the National Association of Home Builders’ Remodelers, 70% of remodelers report making universal design modifications, up from 60% in 2006. These homeowners don’t want to move or lose independence so they are increasingly asking for these improvements to make their existing home more comfortable.
According to the NAHB, below are the most frequently asked for modifications.
• Adding grab bars – 78%
• Installing higher toilets – 71%
• Upgrading to a curb-less shower – 60%
• Widening doorways – 57%
• Constructing ramps – 45%
• Enhancing lighting and task lighting – 45%
The survey also indicates that 84% of homeowners are aware of universal design solutions and 74% of remodelers note an increase in requests for these options. Universal design projects are often requested by relatives of aging adults in an effort to plan ahead for visits or an elderly relative who may be living with them in the future.”
We are finding that adding simple “aging-in-place” features to bathrooms can make it friendly today for visiting elderly family as well as being ready for our needs. Adding some features can be done as additions to finished bathrooms or incorporated easily into a remodeling project.
