One study revealed that more around 76 percent of individuals age 65 and above own the house they are living in. Out of the respondents, about 88 percent of them are planning to have a home renovation after a few years. This study only shows that elderly people are also interested in real estate property ownership and home improvement.

For one thing, comfortable home is important for elderly people. This means considering their mobility and ensuring their safety when they are in their own homes. A home remodeling addition may be necessary to accommodate the elderly person’s domestic needs. In building a home addition, one must hire a professional home addition builder to ensure quality and satisfying finish.

But it doesn’t mean you have to delay planning for a home addition design just because you are not yet 60 and above. In fact, now is the best time to plan for a home renovation while you are still able. We all need to prepare for our retirement, and that includes making our home a senior-friendly one when that time comes.

Planning a senior-friendly home renovation

As mentioned, now is the right time to plan an elderly-friendly home. On the contrary, it is not a good idea to delay a home renovation or addition project when you are already old and unable to do tasks like before. Also, you can have more time to pay attention to details if you plan a home addition or renovation while you are still at the peak of your health.

Planning for an elderly-friendly home remodeling or renovation may seem overwhelming. However, home remodeling architects assure everyone that it doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s mostly just replacing or adding certain items to ensure the elderly person’s convenience and safety.

Nonetheless, it is important to prepare for a home renovation or addition especially in terms of budget. It depends on what type of remodeling you want, but it is better to be financially prepared nonetheless. You should not wait until you reach retirement to hire a home addition builder because you might be qualified for a loan if you are going to rely on your monthly pension.

Elderly-friendly home renovations

Here are some of the most popular home renovations that can help home living easier, more convenient, and safer especially for the elderly.

Elevator/chair lift

This is important especially if your house has a second or third floor. There are chair lifts that can be attached to the stairs, and costs at least $3,000, excluding installation fees.

Kitchen/bathroom countertops and cabinets

It is also a good idea to adjust the countertop lower than regular countertops. This is to make kitchen tasks easier for the elderlies. Make sure there is also enough space in the kitchen and bathroom to walk and navigate around.

Flooring

Elderly people are prone to accidents that is why safety is crucial. In the case of flooring, it is safer to use linoleum, vinyl, cork, or bamboo. Such floor options may cost at least $3 per square foot depending on the type of flooring.

Grab bars

This is important in bathrooms to offer assistance for the elderly and to prevent slipping and falls in the bathroom.

Lever-style doorknobs

This is easier to use than twist doorknobs as the latter can be hard especially for those with conditions that may limit their movements.

Other home improvements to consider

Aside from the abovementioned renovations/replacements, here are other things you need to do to prepare your home for retirement.

Make your home more spacious.

Space is crucial for an elderly-friendly home. From the doorway, living room, kitchen, and basically every part of your house, spacious interiors are important for easier navigation and fewer accidents.

Set a budget.

As mentioned, now is the right time to do some adjustments to your home while you are still able and earning a salary. Home renovations may not come cheap depending on the type of improvement you want to achieve.

Make it easier for you.

Basically, you should make your home more convenient for you. By doing these improvements, not only will it make your life at home a lot easier but also more comfortable and safer.

Hiring a home improvement expert

Whether we like it or not, we will all get old. That is why we need to prepare for it as early as now. For your home improvement needs, you should hire a professional architects builder in Washington DC. Contact one today!