If you’re an empty nester, you might be familiar with the phrase, “aging in place.” Many of today’s empty nesters are building homes that will accommodate their needs as they grow older. Rather than moving into senior housing, people are choosing options such as long-term home occupancy. This gives people the opportunity to live in their own homes independently instead of downsizing. It’s the most proactive way to prepare your future as your needs change. So, how do you build a home that meets your needs for the future?
Single-Story
We recommend single-story homes to anyone considering an “aging in place” plan. Stairs can become challenging for individuals in the future, and it’s best to prepare your home for potential health risks down the road. Not only does a single-story home reduce the risks of potential injuries, but it also It provides a greater amount of freedom and flexibility. Some people do not feel comfortable leaving their current home and moving into a single-story home. If that’s the case, there are plenty of options. From remodeling the first floor to adding an elevator in the home, we have a list of customized solutions to fit each person’s unique needs.
No Outdoor Steps
We mentioned earlier that there should not be stairs inside the house. We also recommend that a home should have at least one entrance that is level with the ground. Most homes include a doorstep, but this does not make the home as accessible as it needs to be for a couple planning to “age in place.” By creating an entrance that requires no steps, it allows accessibility for wheelchairs and walkers in the future.
Open-Concept Living
The home should have a floorplan that is spacious and easy to navigate. We recommend a 5-foot by 5-foot clear space is living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms. The hallways and doorways should also be wide enough to comfortably accommodate a wheelchair or walker. An open floor plan allows for easy maneuvering, and it creates a design that is both bright and functional.
It’s important to build a home with functional features for “aging in place” that will not require major renovations at a later time. Are you interested in learning more? Learn about all of our suggestions for aging in place, here. We proudly build homes North Homes is also a Certified Green Professional. We’re currently building custom homes in the following Indiana counties: Boone County, Clinton County, Hamilton County, Hancock County, Hendricks County, Howard County, Johnson County, Madison County, Marion County, Montgomery County, Morgan County, Putnam County, Shelby County, Tippecanoe County, and Tipton County.