‘AGING-IN-PLACE’ Trend

A recent article in a national remodeling trade magazine* quoted a recent survey by AARP. The results of the mid-year survey were released in late 2010 and noted that the preference of the 45+ population was to remain in their current home. The reasons varied, but noted in the article was the fact that over 80% of the aged population currently reside in homes with two of the key elements of comfortable living; a full bath on the main level of their home, and/or a room on the main floor for conversion to a bedroom in case of injury or downsize from multi-floor living.

In these cases, converting the bathroom to accommodate aging disabilities is not as difficult as one might first imagine, and allows the owner to remain in an enviroment to their liking.

Many new products are coming on the market daily to address the needs of the aging population and include: walk-in bathtubs, tub apron access opening cut-outs, shower bases with seats to replace existing bathtubs, high-rise toilets and taller vanity cabinets just to mention a few. Other simple adjustments are; changing out door knobs to lever handles, adding hand rails and ramps, upgrading lighting, widening doorways, switching out faucets to single handle lever models, and many more options as needed.

If you know of someone in need of anyone of these accommodation changes, we would be happy to review their needs at no cost. At Bathquarters Home Renovators, we provide all these remodeling services.


* Kitchen and Bath Design News (1/11)