The goal of aging-in-place (AIP) home renovation is to meet your accessibility needs by transforming your home into a safe, yet comfortable living environment while staying within your budget.
Today, there are hundreds of styles and accommodations that provide flexibility and high function, without compromising the pleasing aesthetics. As a certified aging-in-place specialist, Max Tripodi knows that there are many options to choose from, and has the skills and experience to guide you through the process.
1. Entryway and Stairs
One of the most common challenges for those who want to remain at home is located right at the entrance. AIP projects can provide design solutions for entryways, including lifts, elevators, ramps, and even a no step entry for the occupant.
Additionally, depending on whether the occupant uses a wheelchair, scooter, or a walker, the appropriate measurements must be taken to ensure the individual has enough room to maneuver comfortably in his or her home.
2. Bathroom
Installing grab bars
Grab bars are an excellent way to provide support for clients in situations where they may lose their balance. Grab bars can be installed in the shower, bath tub, by the toilet, near the lavatory, entryway, and even closet.
It is also important to note that there are guidelines and standards set by the International Codes Counsel/American National Standards Institute for secure placement, strength, and efficiency.
Countertops and lavatories
For clients who require a wheelchair, an AIP all the lavatory features must be accessible to the occupant. This means constructing counter tops 34 inches high, with knee clearance of 27 inches (these measurements may vary depending on the occupant’s height.)
Other AIP design concepts include lever handles that are mounted on the front of the counter or to the side for easy access, and pipes towards the back of the counter to provide additional knee clearance.
Roll-in showers and tubs
Depending on an individual’s preference, showers or tubs may be installed in the occupant’s bathroom. Soaking in tubs may be a requirement for water therapy, or simply a personal preference.
In addition to installing grab bars and tubs, there are several different shower styles to choose from. Some options include:
3. Kitchen
Maneuvering room is often a first consideration in an AIP client’s kitchen. The client must have enough space to move around the kitchen, while also having the necessary grab bars and accessibility features for efficient and easy use while cooking and cleaning.
The most common concerns regarding kitchen accessibility are:
4. Closets
Walk-in or roll-in closets are common requests when it comes to AIP. A large, accessible closet with motion activated switches are a few ways that an occupant’s accessibility needs can be met. Additionally, several details can go in to designing an AIP closet, such as closet rods, lighting, accessory doors, and appropriate entry opening parameters.
5. Laundry Room
Client’s often express concerns about their laundry room door entry being too narrow, insufficient maneuvering space, and storage spaces that are out of reach.
Some laundry room accessibility options are:
Although it may be overwhelming to renovate your home to be more accessible while maintaining the unique qualities that make it “home”, with the right contracting team, your project can run with ease. At RCA Contractors Inc. we know the importance of meeting clients’ requests, while also following federal and state code requirements.
If you have any questions regarding aging-in-place design and modifications, please contact our Florida General Contractor, Max Tripodi, at (954) 931-6688.
To learn more about aging in place home renovations, please see our partner site, aipcontractor.com, where Max is the contributing author.