Aging-In-Place

Kitchens are especially critical in designing a space to allow you to remain in your home for as long as possible. The kitchen is a part of daily living, where we spend a lot of time. It can also be a space of possible hazards if not designed with a universal design in mind. When redesigning your kitchen, if you are contemplating remaining in your home for years to come, you should consider an aging-in-place or universal kitchen design.

Hatchett’s Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designers will start with a conversation, hearing your desires for the remodeled bathroom and assessing the current bathroom space. Our team will then develop an aging-in-place design that is both functional and luxurious as you plan to remain in your home for as long as possible. Our CAP specialists create universal design plans not only accounting for current needs for your bathroom but also expecting future needs for the space as well.

With the cost of healthcare on the rise, many senior adults are looking to live in their homes for as long as independent living is comfortable. The increased cost of retirement community living options encourages other senior adults to create a space for independent living as they age in their own homes or as a home addition with close relatives. This multi-generational living is increasing across the nation and here in Hampton Roads. To accommodate a home for a multi-generational family, many homeowners are remodeling their homes with an aging-in-place addition. Aging in place is the ability to live in the home of your choice as safely, independently, and comfortably as possible. These home additions designed for senior relatives are often referred to as an in-law suite. There are several specifications that you may want to consider in the design of your new in-law suite addition. Our design team, being Certified Aging in Place Specialists, has found these design elements important in the creation of an in-law suite that will be functional and accommodating for years to come.

Ensure hallways are well-lit and void of flooring that could cause slipping or tripping to prevent falls. Keep doorways a minimum of 36 inches, but wider is better to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs. Design at least one entry point without steps. Ideally include a cover for easier transfer inside and outside during inclement weather. Provide appropriate lighting at the entry point, especially to illuminate the front door lock. Sensor lighting is a nice touch to have access to outside lights whether the light switch was turned on or not. It’s important to ensure other home modifications in the kitchen and bathroom have been made to develop a universal design.